Archive · 11 Dec 2025
Controversy Over Messi Match Funding
There is a big football match happening in Hyderabad on December 13 with Lionel Messi.
The government is spending a lot of money on this event, which some people, like the BJP, think is a waste of public money.
They say the Chief Minister is using money meant for workers and athletes for his own fun.
The BJP is planning to protest against this.
The government, however, sees the event as a good opportunity for the state.
There are also concerns about the cost of changing the cricket stadium into a football field.
A football match involving Lionel Messi is scheduled for December 13 at Uppal Stadium, Hyderabad.
BJP accuses Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy of misusing public funds, alleging the event costs over Rs 100 crore.
BJP claims Messi's appearance fee is Rs 70 crore, with additional costs for security, accommodation, and flight.
BJP alleges SCCL funds meant for miners' welfare and athletes are being diverted for the CM's team.
BJP plans to protest against the event at SCCL headquarters, Red Hills, on Friday.
- Who
- Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, BJP Legislature Party leader A. Maheshwar Reddy, Lionel Messi
- What
- Controversy over the funding and organization of a football match involving Lionel Messi
- When
- December 13 (match), Friday (protest)
- Where
- Uppal Stadium, Hyderabad; SCCL headquarters, Red Hills
- Why
- BJP alleges misuse of public funds and personal indulgence by the CM
Government and Supporters
BJP Opposition
Public Funds Usage
Government and Supporters
The government defends the expenditure as a promotional event for Telangana.
BJP Opposition
BJP alleges misuse of public funds, calling it a financial crime and personal indulgence of the CM.
Event Sponsorship
Government and Supporters
The government views the event as a significant opportunity for the state.
BJP Opposition
BJP claims SCCL funds meant for miners' welfare and athletes are being diverted for the CM's team.
Stadium Modifications
Government and Supporters
The government sees the stadium conversion as a necessary temporary measure.
BJP Opposition
BJP alleges the modifications risk damaging the cricket ground and are a waste of funds.
- Event
- Football match involving Lionel Messi
- Date
- December 13
- Location
- Uppal Stadium, Hyderabad
- Security
- Elaborate and tight security arrangements
- Entry Requirement
- Only spectators with valid tickets or official passes
- Alleged Cost
- Over Rs 100 crore
- Alleged Appearance Fee
- Rs 70 crore
- Protest
- BJP to protest at SCCL headquarters
