Indian football gets a boost as AIFF prepare to join new Asian football federation
In a surprising move, Ten countries from South Asia and West Asia have now come together to form a sub-federation termed South West Asian Football Federation with India too a part of it.
The West Asian & South Asian Football Federations combined forces to form a new Southwest Asian Football Federation, with countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Qatar being left out of it.
Member Associations:
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- India
- Kuwait
- Maldives
- Pakistan
- Saudi Arabia
- Sri Lanka
- United Arab Emirates
- Yemen
The federation will aim at developing the sport in Asia and hold many tournaments and events on an annual basis. The 10 federations announced the selection of Turki Al-Sheikh as honorary president of the federation, which will launch a series of programs and competitions aimed at raising the level of Asian football.
The South West Asian Football Federation (SWAFF), founded on 10 May 2018, is an association of the football playing nations in Asia. This major move came after Ali Bin Al Hussein refused to move West Asian Football Federations HQ to Saudi Arabia.
Speculation are rife that India might leave the SAFF like Afghanistan did, no Indian representative elected among the President, Vice President and the Treasurer posts in the recent election. While the gulf is huge between South Asian and West Asian countries this merger venture could be just the opportunity India needs to play regular tougher tournaments.
Although there are reports of India’s participation in SWAFF, the Indian board is yet to give an official clarification.
Also Read: MDFA to hold trials for WIFA Inter-district Football
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