INDIAN FOOTBALL

Fee-based academies have widened access to organised football, but without quality control, transparent outcomes and stronger support for inclusive pathways, their contribution to elite talent development will remain modest.

The Durand Cup’s 135th edition in 2026 did more than crown a champion. It confirmed that one of world football’s oldest surviving competitions has rediscovered its purpose, its audience and its authority. After spending more than two decades away from the national limelight and, at times, away from the institutional focus that once made it the pride of Indian football, the tournament has found its rhythm again. Over the past five years, it has steadily grown in stature, visib

Every four years, the FIFA World Cup motivates India to envision a new era for football in the country. Newspapers dedicate entire pages to the event, social media is flooded with analysis and fandom, television channels transform football into a national craze, and prominent figures from various sectors suddenly become enthusiastic commentators on the sport. During this period, India seems like one of the world's great football cultures. However, beneath this spectacle lies

Zee has acquired the rights to 39 international football events, including the FIFA World Cup 2026, FIFA World Cup 2030, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

Dr. Shaji Prabhakaran Kushal Das, the former General Secretary of the All India Football Federation, passed away on March 13, 2026, at the age of 66. He held the position of General Secretary for 12 years. The former ICC CFO died at a private hospital in Delhi. His tenure at the All India Football Federation (AIFF) was marked by modernization efforts in Indian football, including the expansion of domestic competitions, strengthening of institutions, and the emergence of a n

The Indian national men's football team recently faced a major setback by not qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup 2027. This is significant as it is the first time since the tournament expanded to 24 teams in 2019 that India has not made it. After participating in both the 2019 and 2023 editions, this disappointment raises serious concerns about the future of football in India. Just weeks ago, the thought of the Indian team missing out on the 24-team AFC Asian Cup seemed unthink

The Indian Women’s National Team, known as the Blue Tigresses, achieved a historic milestone by leading Group B qualifiers in Thailand...

Since early 2024, the Indian national men's football team has faced considerable difficulties, prompting many to scrutinize the salaries...