Rahul Gandhi Set to Join Messi at Hyderabad Football Event

In a notable sporting event, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, will be present at Lionel Messi’s ‘GOAT India Tour’ on December 13 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad. He will witness a friendly match featuring Messi’s team against that of Telangana’s Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who extended invitations to both Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi during a recent visit to Delhi.

The event is expected to draw around 39,000 fans, with comprehensive security measures in place. Approximately 2,500 police personnel will oversee crowd management, ensuring that only ticket holders can enter the venue. Additionally, traffic restrictions will be introduced in the busy Uppal vicinity, with designated routes for VIP attendees, including Messi, Rahul Gandhi, and CM Revanth Reddy.

Messi is scheduled to arrive at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at 4 p.m. before stopping at the Taj Falaknuma Hotel and then proceeding to the stadium. Following the match, he will return to the hotel. Meanwhile, CM Revanth Reddy, sporting the number 9 jersey, has been training with his team, while Messi will don his legendary number 10 jersey.

Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has encouraged avid football fans to arrive early to ensure smooth and secure seating. IT Minister Sridhar Babu mentioned that Messi's participation in the match is tied to a broader social cause.

This match forms part of the “Telangana Rising” festivities, with hopes that Messi will serve as a global ambassador for Telangana, promoting sports, tourism, youth initiatives, and investment opportunities. The event showcases the region's burgeoning enthusiasm for significant sporting events and aims to position Telangana as a vibrant locale on the world stage.