Hyderabad: Although the details of Lionel Messi's visit to the city are kept under wraps, it is learnt the ‘GOAT' is likely to stay at the iconic Taj Falaknuma Palace. In the past several high-profile events, including a dinner hosted by PM Narendra Modi for US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka, were held at the abode of the Nizam of Hyderabad. Built in 1894, the palace was converted into a hotel in 2010.
After landing in the city on Dec 13, Messi and his team will check in at Taj Falaknuma. In the evening, it will be time for happy feet as Messi will be transported to Uppal Stadium to play a friendly in which CM A Revanth Reddy will also take part. Post-match, the Argentine World Cup winner will be back again in the palace, where he will meet select people who pay to meet him. He will fly out of the city the next day.
"As per plans, Messi will be given accommodation at Falaknuma Palace," a source privy to the arrangements told TOI. Security personnel and other state govt officials involved in the arrangements are paying frequent visits to the palace.
About whether Leo will visit any other historic site, such as Charminar or Golconda Fort, there is no confirmation. Details relating to his movements in Hyderabad are being maintained highly confidential by Intelligence Security Wing (ISW), which is in charge of the footballing genius' security.
Ever since the state govt confirmed Messi will play a friendly at Uppal this coming Saturday, there have been heightened expectations about his visit to Pearl City. There is no clarity on how much time the legendary superstar will spend in the stadium. Messi is visiting India as part of the ‘GOAT India Tour 2025'.
Since the stadium is expected to be full to the brim, multiple security reviews are being conducted — with deputy CM Batti Vikramarka and minister Sridhar Babu inspecting arrangements with Telangana police top brass including Rachakonda CP Sudheer Babu and state intelligence chief Vijay Kumar on Sunday.
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Srinath Vudali an Assistant Editor, working in TOI- Hyderabad Bur...
Read MoreSrinath Vudali an Assistant Editor, working in TOI- Hyderabad Bureau has an experience of 17 years in reporting various issues in Telangana. I predominantly write on issues related to Crime and Legal. I have in-depth experience in handling issues related to terrorism, Left Wing Extremism, regional strife, issues related to Cyber Security and others.
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