Telangana: CM Revanth Reddy allows commercial establishments to hold FIFA World Cup final viewing till 4 am
Hyderabad, July 19
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has permitted commercial establishments to allow FIFA World Cup final viewing till 4 am on Monday and also announced a screening at the People's Plaza.
Lionel Messi is set to lead Argentina against Spain in the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday (local time), eyeing a back-to-back title win.
A statement from the CMO stated that Revanth Reddy is the "only Chief Minister to share an active football field in game mode with Argentina GOAT Lionel Messi."
In an X post, Revanth Reddy wrote, "Most of you know I am a die-hard sports and a football lover. I loved the day we could bring GOAT Messi to Hyderabad to share the pitch with the children of Telangana. But there is a deeper purpose and vision for my support of the FIFA World Cup. I am convinced one day @IndianFootball team will play in the World Cup Finals and even host it. And mark my words, several of those future stars will be from Telangana. Enjoy the finals."
In December 2025, Hyderabad was the second pit stop for Argentina's World Cup-winning icon Lionel Messi during the 'GOAT India Tour 2025'.
The footballer's visit to Hyderabad was a fun experience for his fans in India. He took part in a 7-on-7 exhibition football match involving CM Revanth Reddy, soaked in the love from a passionate and loud audience and also met the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi.
Meanwhile, Argentina is preparing to defend its title against Spain in the final, as Messi gears up to play against his former club, Barcelona FC's prodigies Pedri and Lamine Yamal.
Messi and his team will be up against the formidable Spanish defence, which has conceded only one goal in the tournament. Spain is aiming for their first FIFA World Cup crown since 2010.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While it's great for football fans, I have concerns about this. What about noise pollution and safety issues in residential areas near these establishments? Also, 4 am is very late - will authorities ensure proper security and traffic management? A good gesture but needs careful implementation. 🤔
Messi coming to Hyderabad and now this! ✨ The CM actually played football with Messi - crazy to think about. Imagine being a kid from Telangana and seeing your CM on the same field with the GOAT. That alone will inspire many young footballers. And the comment about India hosting the World Cup one day - yes, please! 🇮🇳⚽
Honestly, as someone who doesn't follow football much, I feel this is a bit excessive - allowing late-night parties for a sports event while our state faces power cuts in some areas. But I get why fans are excited. Just wish the government balanced these celebrations with basic infrastructure issues. Fair play to Messi though. 😅
So proud of this! 💪 Hyderabad has always been a city of sports - from cricket to badminton to now football. The screening at People's Plaza is a great idea - free for everyone and accessible. Let's enjoy the final between Messi's Argentina and Spain. Vamos Argentina! 🇦🇷 Also, that 7-on-7 match with CM and Rahul Gandhi - iconic! 😄
Good for football fans, but I think the government could have handled it better. Why not announce earlier? Many pubs and restaurants might not have enough time to arrange
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