Are We Wasting Money on Brazil’s Legends Instead of Building Indian Football?
As a football fan, this news has me excited yet questioning the priorities in Indian football development. On March 31 and April 1, 2025, Chennai will host an event that sounds straight out of a dream. Football Plus Academy, in collaboration with Brazil Sports Academy, is bringing football legends like Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Kaka, Dunga, and others—the icons of Brazil’s iconic 2002 FIFA World Cup-winning team—to Chennai for the Football+ Summit.
Not only will these legends engage in workshops and panel discussions to inspire India’s football community, but they’ll also play an exhibition match against Indian legends at the Chennai Football Stadium. This has created a buzz like no other.
But here’s the question—is this the right way to grow Indian football?
On one hand, this event is undeniably historic. It puts Chennai, and by extension Indian football, on the global map for a few days. Kids will get to watch their heroes in real life, which could inspire the next generation. Industry leaders, players, and coaches will have a chance to learn from some of the best minds in football.
However, on the other hand, isn’t this just a one-off spectacle? Events like these make headlines, but how much impact do they really leave behind? Could the funds and energy spent on this be better used elsewhere? For instance:
- Grassroots Development: What if this money went into creating more academies or upgrading existing facilities?
- Launching Local Leagues: Why not use these resources to start a robust league in Tamil Nadu, giving local players consistent exposure?
- Player Pathways: Instead of bringing retired legends, how about investing in pathways that help young players transition to professional stages like the ISL or even abroad?
As a community, we’ve often debated what Indian football really needs. Events like this are flashy and exciting but can feel like missed opportunities for long-term growth.
Don’t get me wrong—seeing Ronaldinho or Kaka in Chennai is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m thrilled for it. But if we’re serious about making Indian football competitive on the global stage, should we focus more on consistent, grassroots-driven efforts?
What do you think? Is this summit a stepping stone for Indian football or just another PR event? Let’s discuss!
