The upcoming 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou is facing a significant setback with the possibility of the Indian football teams not participating. The Indian Olympic Association decided against sending a team as the Indian men’s football team failed to meet the Sports Ministry’s criteria of being ranked among the Top 8 in Asia. This decision has sparked a contentious debate within the Indian sporting community.
Indian men’s football team head coach Igor Stimac, along with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur to intervene in the matter. They argue that India’s recent successes, including winning the InterContinental Cup and the SAFF Championships, showcase the team’s potential and raise the profile of football in the country. Stimac emphasizes the talent and investment in the development of the team, particularly the players who represented India in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup. The Sports Ministry’s criteria state that only sports ranked among the top eight in Asia in the last year should be considered for participation in the Asian Games.
However, there is a clause allowing exceptions based on recommendations from experts and the Sports Authority of India. The decision lies in the hands of the ministry. One of the complications is the conflict of interest surrounding AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, who is also the acting CEO and joint-secretary of the IOA.
The implications of his involvement in the decision-making process remain uncertain, raising concerns about transparency and impartiality. Another significant challenge is the availability of players. The Asian Games take place during the club football season, outside the FIFA international window. Indian Super League clubs are not obligated to release their players, potentially compromising the squad available to coach Stimac. Additionally, with the AFC Asian Cup scheduled for January 2024, clubs may be hesitant to release players in the September/October window, even if the Asian Games were to be considered.
