Why Indian Football Team may not participate in Asian Games 2023?

The top continental stars of various sports will take part in the auction and the Indian contingent will be participating with high hopes as well.

For the first time, the Indian cricket teams of both men’s and women’s will be part of the Asian Games. But when it comes to football, the scenario is completely different.

According to reports, the Indian football team may not participate in the Asian Games as of now. It is due to the football team not meeting sports ministry’s criteria of being the top eight nations participating in the tournament.

Why India Football Team may not participate in Asian Games 2023?

Widespread reports and MyKhel’s understanding suggests the Indian football team may not play in the Asian Games.

It is due to Indian sports ministry’s regulations which says a team sport which ranks among the top eight in the continent may only warrant a green signal to participate in the tournament.

A letter sent to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and all the National Sports Federations (NSFs) from Indian sports ministry said, “for team events, only those sports which have achieved a ranking up to eighth among participating countries of Asia in the last one year should be considered for participation in Asian Games”.

India are currently the 18th ranked football team in Asia, which denies them the opportunity to play in the tournament.

What was AIFF’s plan for Asian Games 2023?

AIFF had already selected 40 players, mostly comprised of under-23s to take part in the Asian Games 2023. It also had plans to appoint senior team coach Igor Stimac for the tournament.

Can Indian Football Team still participate in Asian Games 2023?

There is still a glimmer of hope for the Indian football team to showcase their talent at the continental stage. But it will require a NOC from the sports ministry. AIFF’s general secretary Shaji Prabhakaran said they will request the ministry to consider some leniency for the football team.

“We will explain to them why the team needs to take part in the tournament. We will tell that we have been doing well and a tournament like the Asian Games will definitely be a good experience for our players. I’m sure they will allow us to play in the tournament,” Prabhakaran said to The Indian Express.

It will be a massive blow for the football lovers in the country if Indian football team is denied a participation by their own country. The Blue Tigers have done well recently under Igor Stimac and even the youth team are showing a lot more potential. Hence any opportunity at the Asian Games is welcoming and hopefully will propel football towards its next steps in the country.