Revanth Reddy says Telangana will produce future FIFA World Cup stars

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy with Argentine football icon Lionel Messi in Hyderabad during his latest visit to India. File

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday (July 19) reaffirmed his passion for football and expressed confidence that India will one day qualify for the FIFA World Cup finals, with several players from Telangana in the national team.

In a message shared on social media ahead of the FIFA World Cup final, the chief minister described himself as a “die-hard lover of sports and football” and recalled a memorable occasion when football legend Lionel Messi visited Hyderabad to meet the children of Telangana.

Mr. Revanth Reddy said that bringing Messi to Hyderabad was not only a symbolic event but reflected a larger vision to promote football and inspire young talent in the state.

“I am confident that one day the Indian football team will play the FIFA World Cup finals and even host the tournament. Mark my words, several of these future stars will be from Telangana,” he said.

The Chief Minister said his support for the FIFA World Cup stems from a long-standing commitment to nurture sporting talent and create opportunities for young footballers. He expressed hope that the youth of Telangana would prove to be key contributors to India’s rise in international football.

Published – 19 Jul 2026 17:57 IST