Kochi, Sept. 18 -- The Kerala Police Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged financial irregularities surrounding the proposed visit of Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team to Kochi has widened its investigation, with the SIT chief briefing Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on the progress of the case.

The inquiry relates to the previous government's efforts to host an Argentina team match featuring Messi in Kochi in 2025. The proposed event did not take place, and investigators are examining alleged financial and procedural irregularities linked to the initiative.

Sources cited in reports said the investigation could also extend to former Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman. A separate departmental inquiry had repor...