FIFA Launches First Talent Academy In India In Collaboration With AIFF

Last Updated:August 02, 2025, 20:35 IST

FIFA, AIFF, and Telangana launched India's first talent academy at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad, to train 60 elite players, focusing on inclusivity and gender equality.

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey introduces the new partnership with FIFA (X)

FIFA, in collaboration with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Government of Telangana, officially launched its first-ever talent academy in India on Saturday, marking a major milestone in the nation’s football development journey.

The initiative aims to provide elite-level training and holistic development opportunities to young footballers, with a special emphasis on inclusivity and gender equality.

A Historic Step for Indian Football

The new academy, located at the Gachibowli Stadium Complex in Hyderabad, will serve as a year-round residential training center for 60 elite players—30 boys (under 14) and 30 girls (under 16). Among these, 10 players in each category will be selected from Telangana.

The facility will offer more than just football coaching. It will provide players with access to formal education, medical care, nutrition, psychological support, and modern residential amenities—a comprehensive approach to grooming both athletes and individuals.

The initiative is part of FIFA’s global Talent Development Scheme, which seeks to identify and nurture young football talent worldwide through structured, long-term investment in youth systems.

“A Defining Moment" — Kalyan Chaubey

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey hailed the launch of the academy as a landmark development for Indian football.

“The launch of India’s first FIFA Talent Academy for girls and second academy for boys marks a defining moment in our journey towards equitable football development," said Chaubey.

“This collaboration with the Government of Telangana, under FIFA’s global Talent Development Scheme, reflects our collective resolve to identify, nurture, and empower young talent — especially girls — from across the nation."

Chaubey emphasized that the academy aligns with AIFF’s long-term roadmap, “Vision 2047," which aspires to position India among the top footballing nations globally. A key goal under this vision is for India to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cups in both the men’s and women’s categories in the coming years.

As part of the tripartite agreement, the AIFF will oversee technical operations—including scouting, coaching curriculum, and talent management—while FIFA will provide strategic support and global best practices. The Sports Authority of Telangana will be responsible for infrastructure, logistics, education, and player welfare.

(with PTI inputs)

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

Read More

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First Published:

August 02, 2025, 20:35 IST

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