AIFF Seeks Government Support for Football Initiatives Ahead of 2026 Asian Games

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has approached the Sports Ministry for support in multiple areas, including preparation camps for the 2026 Asian Games and a specialised goalkeeper academy. AIFF officials met with Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya to discuss these initiatives.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has reached out to the Sports Ministry for assistance in four key areas, including preparation camps for the men's and women's football teams for the 2026 Asian Games. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, Acting Secretary General M Satyanarayan, and Treasurer Kipa Ajay discussed these matters with Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and his team on Monday.

According to an AIFF statement on Tuesday, the federation also seeks support for a specialised goalkeeper academy. The AIFF specifically requested the Ministry of Sports to back their usage of all FIFA International Match Windows for both men and women. Additionally, they sought assistance for the head coaches of the senior men's and women's teams, and expressed the need for a dedicated preparation camp for the upcoming Asian Games.

Union Minister Mandaviya assured that the government would strive to provide the necessary support within the framework of its policies. Satyanarayan remarked that their hour-long meeting with the Sports Minister was productive and highlighted the government’s role in advancing Indian football. Mandaviya, who inaugurated the Blue Cubs Development Centre for Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council Football Academy in Srinagar on July 14, praised AIFF's initiatives in the region. The AIFF acknowledged the significant potential for football development in Jammu and Kashmir and expressed hope that their efforts would greatly benefit the popular sport in the union territory.