Indian football legend Bhaichung Bhutia spoke in support of FIFA lifting the ban from AIFF. India was banned by FIFA on 15th August for third-party influence and prevented countries from having any matches with India. The prohibition is lifted after the Supreme Court of India adhered to the terms “It’s wonderful news. I welcome the decision of FIFA to lift the suspension on AIFF. It’s a win for Indian football, nothing else.” Bhutia stated to PTI
“I am extremely happy for our young players as they will now be able to play against the best in the business in their age group in the Women’s U-17 World Cup.” Bhaichung mentioned the player being able to play in the World uCup after FIFA banned India due to the “influence of third parties” and discarded the U-17 Women’s World Cup to be held in the country.
It was the first time in India’s 85-year history of football, that FIFA suspended the nation. Though it lasted just 11 days, after the Supreme Court of India dissolved the CoA on Monday. Bhaichung Bhutia also filed a nomination for the post of AIFF president and the elections will be commenced on 2nd September. He stated it was time to change the football administration to avoid another suspension.
“It’s also time to learn lessons and bring in changes and reforms in the Indian football administration. We need changes in the system. I feel Indian football can reach new heights if we have the right system, right personnel in the administration. I am of the opinion that our age group, as well as senior teams, can reach the world cups on merit in the coming years.”
Bhaichung Bhutia is the first Indian to play 100 matches for the country before retiring in 2011. He was awarded the AFC Hall of Fame Award in 2019 for his impeccable contribution to Indian football. He will fight with his former teammate and goalkeeper, Kalyan Chaubey for the AIFF President’s post.
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