Archive · 19 Dec 2025
India's Football Development and World Cup Hopes
India's Sports Minister was asked in the Rajya Sabha about India's chances to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is working on a long-term plan to help both the men's and women's national teams qualify.
Meanwhile, the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs are asked to form a consortium to run the league as the AIFF reviews commercial issues.
The Indian Women's League (IWL) will start without a sponsor.
The AIFF is also focusing on developing football at the grassroots level through various initiatives.
India's Sports Minister was questioned in the Rajya Sabha about India's FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification prospects.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has a long-term plan to help both the men's and women's national teams qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
ISL clubs were asked to submit a proposal for forming a consortium to run the league, with discussions to take place at the AIFF's AGM.
The Indian Women's League (IWL) will start without a sponsor as an agreement with Capri Sports could not be reached.
The AIFF is focusing on developing football at the grassroots level through initiatives like the Khelo India Asmita League and FIFA-AIFF Football Academies.
- Who
- India's Sports Minister, All India Football Federation (AIFF), ISL clubs, Indian Women's League (IWL)
- What
- Discussion on India's FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification and commercial issues in Indian football
- When
- December 18, 2025
- Where
- Rajya Sabha, India
- Why
- To understand the challenges and plans for India's qualification and to address commercial issues in Indian football
- Country
- India
- Organization
- All India Football Federation (AIFF)
- Status
- Recognized by the ministry
- Goal
- Qualify for FIFA World Cup
- Focus
- Men's and women's national teams
- League
- Indian Super League (ISL)
- League Status
- Without commercial framework
- Women's League
- Indian Women's League (IWL)
- Sponsor Status
- Without a sponsor
Sources
Curacao Qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026, So Why Can’t India? Sports Minister Questioned In Rajya Sabha
Sports Minister Answers Question On Indian Football In Rajya Sabha: 'Qualifying For FIFA World Cup Is...'
Indian Football Still In Limbo! ISL Clubs Told To Form Consortium For AIFF AGM; IWL Still Without Sponsor
Curacao's World Cup qualification sparks India football debate in RS
ISL clubs told to submit proposal regarding consortium
