Hibi Eden alleges dubious business deal in Kerala linked to Messi’s cancelled match

Congress leader and Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden on Monday alleged that the cancellation of Lionel Messi’s proposed friendly football match in Kochi was linked to a dubious business deal and serious financial irregularities.

Speaking to media persons in Kochi, Hibi Eden claimed that a shady business transaction had taken place in Kerala in the name of the proposed friendly match featuring Lionel Messi.

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He further alleged that illegal tree felling occurred under the pretext of renovating the Kaloor Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, and demanded a comprehensive investigation into the renovation project and its associated financial dealings.

The Congress MP also alleged that one of the accused in the Muttil tree-felling case had been made the sponsor of the match by the state government — despite earlier assurances that it would not associate with tainted individuals.

He demanded that the government reveal details of all discussions and agreements held regarding Messi’s proposed visit to Kerala.

Ernakulam District Congress Committee (DCC) President Muhammad Shias also demanded that the agreement between the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) and the sponsor for the stadium’s renovation be made public. Alleging a conspiracy behind the developments, he too called for a thorough investigation into the matter.

A major point of contention is the allegation that trees were cut down illegally during the stadium’s renovation. Hibi reiterated that individuals linked to the Muttil tree-felling scam were involved as sponsors in the project, raising questions about the integrity of the entire process.

The proposed friendly match between the World Cup-winning Argentina team, led by Lionel Messi, and Australia was scheduled to be held in November 2025 in Kochi. However, the match was officially called off on October 25, 2025.

The cancellation has fueled controversy and prompted scrutiny of the rushed renovation of the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kaloor, where sections had reportedly been demolished and trees cut down.