Raj Athwal lauds Odisha Govt.'s efforts for Indian football's development

Raj Athwal is the President of ISL outfit Odisha FC.

Odisha is very well known as India’s best kept secret. It’s not just a great place to explore, it is also India’s most active state when it comes to sports. Be it hockey or football, Odisha has always been a standing pillar for Indian sports.

It is home to a lot of academies, grassroots programs and so much more. It is so special that the much anticipated AIFF-FIFA talent academy will also be inaugurated in the city of temples, Bhubaneswar.

Moreover, the iconic Kalinga Stadium will host India’s second 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier game against defending Asian champions Qatar next week. It will be India’s fifth game at the Kalinga Stadium this year, the joint most they have played in any stadium in 2023.

Support from the Odisha Government

The Government of Odisha led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has played a crucial role in the development of various sports over the years. They are developing a concrete sports eco-system within the state to help the development of various sports.

Odisha can very well be called the Sports Capital of India for everything that they do for sports. The likes of international stadiums, sports complexes and mini stadiums are a part of their ever-growing infrastructure.

The state has hosted a lot of top level competitions over the years including the Hockey World Cup and the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. And now they are all set to host India's game against Qatar.

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Odisha FC’s President reacts

Taking to his social media handles, Odisha FC’s President Raj Athwal has appreciated the efforts of the Odisha Government aim towards the betterment of the beautiful game. Athwal wrote that India will become a powerhouse in football with the support of the Odisha Government.

“What the Odisha Government is doing for sport and football is unbelievable. They need to be applauded for their commitment to sport. I have no doubt India will become a powerhouse in football thanks to the dedication of the Odisha Government,” he posted.