Archive · 19 Jul 2026
India's World Cup Dream: Shaji Prabhakaran's Vision
Shaji Prabhakaran, a former football official, believes India can qualify for the FIFA World Cup with hard work and good planning.
He says India has the talent and resources but needs to improve grassroots football, governance, and team development.
He also talks about how football brings people together and the economic benefits of the World Cup.
Prabhakaran thinks India can achieve this dream in 10-15 years by focusing on youth development, getting government support, and working together.
He also praises Lionel Messi's impact on Argentina's football success.
India has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup despite its large population.
Shaji Prabhakaran believes India can qualify with sustained effort, transparent governance, and grassroots development.
The FIFA World Cup has a significant economic and social impact, uniting billions of people.
Lionel Messi is a key factor in Argentina's success, uniting the team and inspiring teammates.
India needs to improve governance, grassroots programs, youth competitions, and elite level development to qualify for the World Cup.
- Who
- Shaji Prabhakaran, former AIFF general secretary
- What
- India's roadmap to qualify for the FIFA World Cup
- When
- During the 2026 FIFA World Cup cycle and beyond
- Where
- India
- Why
- To leverage football's potential as a soft power and unite the nation
- Population
- 1.4 billion
- World Cup Qualification Status
- Never qualified
- Key Obstacles
- Grassroots development, governance, infrastructure, and collective effort
- Economic Impact of World Cup
- 40 billion globally
- Messi's Influence
- Driving force for Argentina's success
- Required Changes
- Improved governance, grassroots programs, youth competitions, and elite level development
- Timeframe for Change
- 12-15 years for generational shift
- Government Support
- Essential for resources and unity