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

Nari Shakti Vandan Act to Transform Women’s Role in Governance: Odisha CM

Bhubaneswar: Emphasising a paradigm shift in India’s democratic framework, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on…

21 hours ago

Odisha Digitises Urban Governance with Statewide Rollout of OSWAS

Bhubaneswar: In a major push towards digital governance, the Odisha government has successfully implemented the…

21 hours ago

Odisha Launches ‘Aarohan’ Initiative to Strengthen Early Childhood Education

Bhubaneswar: Marking the auspicious occasion of Maha Bishuba Sankranti and the Odia New Year, the…

2 days ago

Heritage Walk in Puri Showcases Pottery Traditions and Sacred Landmarks

Puri: Blending history, culture, and living traditions, the latest edition of the Puri Heritage Walks…

3 days ago

Odisha to Introduce ‘De-addiction Cess’, Revamp Excise Policy to Curb Alcohol Use

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is moving ahead with a revamped excise policy focused on discouraging…

3 days ago

No Power Disconnections for Households in Odisha During Summer, Says Deputy CM

Bhubaneswar: With temperatures soaring across the state, the Odisha government has stepped in to ensure…

3 days ago