In a landmark step to revive and strengthen Indian football, FIFA on Saturday announced the launch of its first talent development academy in the country. The initiative, in collaboration with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Telangana government, aims to provide advanced training and support to promising young footballers across India.
The academy will be based at the Gachibowli Stadium Complex in Hyderabad. It will serve as a year-round high-performance residential center. It will offer comprehensive training, academic education, healthcare, nutrition, and mental wellness support to 60 selected players — 30 boys (Under-14) and 30 girls (Under-16). Each category will also include 10 players from Telangana.
FIFA, AIFF, and the Government of Telangana have signed an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The initiative is part of FIFA’s global Talent Development Scheme. It aligns with AIFF’s long-term “Vision 2047” — a strategic roadmap to transform India into a major footballing nation.
Calling it a pivotal milestone, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey said, “The launch of India’s first FIFA Talent Academy for girls and the second for boys marks a historic step in our pursuit of balanced football development. With this collaboration, we aim to identify and nurture talent, especially among girls, and prepare them for global competition.”
Chaubey added that the academy will be crucial in helping India qualify for future U-17 men’s and women’s FIFA World Cups.
The AIFF will oversee technical operations, nationwide scouting, and training programs, and the Sports Authority of Telangana will manage the infrastructure, logistics, education, and overall welfare of the players.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed pride in hosting the initiative. “This academy is a game-changer for women’s football. It’s not just the first in India under FIFA’s Talent Development Scheme, but among a select few globally. It offers young athletes, particularly girls, access to elite facilities and a pathway to national and international success.”