Key Decisions from the Meeting
The All India Football Federation’s Executive Committee convened at the Football House in New Delhi on Thursday, August 6, 2026. The meeting, chaired by AIFF President Shri Kalyan Chaubey, addressed several important matters concerning Indian football. Among the attendees were Treasurer Mr Kipa Ajay, Deputy Secretary General Mr M Satyanarayan, and other committee members including Mr Lalnghinglova Hmar, Mr Menla Ethenpa, Mr Mohan Lal, Mr Neibou Sekhose, Mr Syed Husnain Naqvi, Mr Syed Imtiaz Hussain, Mr Deepak Sharma, Ms Valanka Alemao, Mr Vijay Bali, Ms Thongam Tababi Devi, Mr Shabbir Ali, Mr Bhaichung Bhutia, and Mr Climax Lawrence.
A significant decision made during the meeting was to confirm India’s participation in an international friendly against Brazil, scheduled for October 3, 2026, in Kolkata. This match is set to take place at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Additionally, India will participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup in Indonesia from September 24 to October 3, 2026. The Executive Committee recognized the friendly against Brazil as a valuable opportunity for Indian players to gain exposure against a strong footballing nation. To accommodate both competitions, the AIFF plans to field separate squads and will formally inform FIFA of this decision.
Preparations and Appointments
The Executive Committee also reviewed the ongoing preparations for the Indian Super League 2026-27 season, which follows the adoption of a new club-led commercial model. Updates were provided on the operational planning progress made by both participating clubs and the Federation. Jamshedpur FC has been granted an extended deadline until August 12, 2026, to reconsider its decision.
Following a recommendation from the AIFF Technical Committee, Bibiano Fernandes was approved as the head coach for the India U15 men’s national team, pending his acceptance. This appointment is for the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival, which is scheduled for October in Azerbaijan. Ranjit Bajaj was approved as the team manager. The team’s contingent for this tournament will consist of 20 members, comprising six staff and 14 players.
Tournament Formats and Compliance
A proposal from the Competition Committee to revamp the Santosh Trophy and the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy into a three-tier format was not approved by the Executive Committee. Concerns regarding competitive opportunities and player development were cited as reasons for this decision. The Competitions Committee has been asked to revise its proposal for future seasons. Consequently, the formats for the Santosh Trophy and the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy will remain unchanged for the 2026-27 season.
The AIFF’s budget for the period of June 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, was also approved by the Executive Committee. Furthermore, the AIFF Secretariat informed the committee about various notifications from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, concerning the adoption of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025. Member Associations whose elections are due this year have been requested to meet compliance requirements by October 20, 2026.
Indian captain Sandesh Jhingan expressed his anticipation for the match against Brazil, describing it as an opportunity to play on the “biggest stage” against a top opponent. He highlighted the potential for such a game to improve India’s world ranking. Defender Akash Mishra also noted the inspirational impact a strong performance could have on supporters and young footballers, demonstrating that Indian football is progressing. Lallianzuala Chhangte, who is recovering from a hand injury, initially thought the news of playing Brazil was a “joke” but emphasized the importance of giving everything for the country once the match begins.
The friendly against Brazil is seen as a significant event, offering invaluable experience to the Indian players. India is currently ranked 138th, while Brazil, five-time world champions, are ranked fifth globally. The match is scheduled for October 3, 2026.
Source: the-aiff.com
