Sports

Odisha CM inaugurates AIFF-FIFA Football Academy in the presence of Arsene Wenger

Bhubaneswar: In a momentous event held at the vibrant Kalinga Stadium during India vs Qatar match of Round 2 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 joint qualification campaign, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, accompanied by FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsene Wenger, inaugurated the AIFF-FIFA Talent Academy.

This collaboration between AIFF (All India Football Federation) and FIFA, in partnership with the Government of Odisha, marks a significant stride in enhancing football development across India. The academy, set to nurture talent in the under-14 category, will select 50 promising football players nationwide, including 15 from Odisha. The distinguished FIFA-appointed coach will lead the academy, complemented by coaches and staff from AIFF and the Government of Odisha.

Expressing his enthusiasm, CM Patnaik stated, “Football holds a special place in the hearts of young Indians. Recognizing the immense talent in our country, I believe, with the right coaching infrastructure, our teams can excel on the global stage. It’s gratifying to collaborate with FIFA and AIFF in establishing these academies. Odisha is committed to supporting football projects and will closely work with AIFF to promote football across India.”

Bureau The News Hashtag

Recent Posts

District Collectors Told to Accelerate Infrastructure and Welfare Projects

Bhubaneswar: With a renewed thrust on accelerating grassroots development, Chief Secretary Anu Garg held an…

7 hours ago

Four Strategic MoUs Signed to Strengthen Odisha’s Skill Ecosystem, Upgrade 22 ITIs into Centres of Excellence

Bhubaneswar: Odisha took a major stride towards building an industry-aligned and future-ready skilling ecosystem with…

7 hours ago

First Batch of Women Drivers Complete Specialised Training for AMA Bus Services

Bhubaneswar: Marking a new chapter in Odisha’s public transport system, the Capital Region Urban Transport…

7 hours ago

Works Minister Reviews Major Projects, Calls for Speed and Quality in Infrastructure Push

Bhubaneswar: With a focus on accelerating Odisha’s infrastructure growth, Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Tuesday…

1 day ago

Odisha Steps Up Drive to Ensure Safety, Dignity and Livelihood Security of Sanitation Workers Under NAMASTE and GARIMA

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has intensified its efforts to enhance the livelihood security, safety and…

1 day ago

Inventory of Ratna Bhandar Jewels to Begin Soon After CM’s High-Level Review

Bhubaneswar: The long-awaited counting and inventory of gold ornaments and precious jewels housed in the…

2 days ago