New Delhi: India has been selected among 12 nations for FIFA’s Women’s Development Programme (Commercial Strategy 2026), a move expected to strengthen the commercial ecosystem of women’s football in the country.
The inclusion follows an application submitted by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), along with a detailed presentation outlining India’s long-term strategy for developing the women’s game.
Programme to run from May to October
The initiative will be conducted online from May to October 2026 and will be customised by FIFA for stakeholders involved in women’s football in India.
It aims to equip clubs and administrators with the tools and knowledge required to build sustainable business models, improve revenue streams, and enhance overall professionalism in the sport.
Focus on club development and licensing
A key objective of the programme is to prepare Indian clubs for the upcoming women’s club licensing system proposed by the Asian Football Confederation.
Through structured guidance, clubs will be supported in areas such as sponsorship acquisition, marketing strategies, and fan engagement, ensuring long-term viability and growth.
India among global participants
India joins a diverse group of countries selected for the programme, including Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Scotland, Canada, Mexico, Finland, Ghana, Jordan, Lithuania, and Paraguay.
The selection places India alongside established footballing nations, highlighting its emerging presence in the women’s football landscape.
AIFF welcomes move
Welcoming the development, AIFF Deputy Secretary General M Satyanarayan said the selection comes at a crucial time for women’s football in India.
He pointed out that the qualification of India’s senior, U-20, and U-17 women’s teams for their respective AFC Asian Cups reflects the growing strength of the sport in the country.
He also highlighted grassroots initiatives such as the ASMITA U-13 Women’s Football League, which have contributed to expanding the talent pool and promoting participation at the junior level.
Boost for Indian Women’s League
Satyanarayan noted that the programme would help clubs develop structured commercial strategies, attract sponsorships, and build stronger connections with fans.
This is particularly significant as clubs participating in the Indian Women’s League are expected to comply with AFC-mandated licensing requirements in the near future.
Conclusion
India’s inclusion in FIFA’s Women’s Development Programme marks an important step towards strengthening the commercial and structural framework of women’s football. With targeted support and global expertise, the initiative is expected to accelerate growth, enhance professionalism, and create new opportunities for players and clubs across the country.
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