In a groundbreaking development, AIFF President Mr. Kalyan Chaubey confirmed during an Executive Committee Meeting today in New Delhi that FIFA President Mr. Gianni Infantino has graciously accepted the invitation to attend the Final Match of the 77th National Championship for Santosh Trophy (Final Round) in Arunachal. The prestigious event is scheduled to take place in Arunachal Pradesh in the months of February and March 2024.
Mr. Chaubey expressed his delight at this significant collaboration, announcing that the National Football Championship in Arunachal Pradesh would now be recognized as the FIFA Santosh Trophy. This development marks a historic milestone in the world of Indian football.
“I am happy to announce that after having discussions with FIFA, the Santosh Trophy will now be known as the FIFA Santosh Trophy. This entails that a team of FIFA officials will come to have a meeting with Arunachal Pradesh officials on the conduct of the tournament,” explained Mr. Chaubey.
He further revealed that FIFA President Mr. Gianni Infantino is expected to be present for the final match on March 9 or 10, adding an extra layer of prestige to the championship.
The initiative to invite Mr. Infantino to Arunachal Pradesh was undertaken earlier this year by the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA) under the guidance of its President-cum-Honorable Chief Minister, Mr. Pema Khandu. The successful acceptance of this invitation has been met with gratitude and excitement from the entire state.
On behalf of the President, Team APFA, and the entire state, sincere thanks were extended to Mr. Gianni Infantino for accepting the invitation. Special appreciation was also conveyed to Mr. Kalyan Chaubey, President of AIFF, for his unwavering support in making this historic moment possible for Arunachal Pradesh.
This collaboration between AIFF, FIFA, and the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association promises to elevate the Santosh Trophy to new heights, bringing global recognition to Indian football on the grand stage.