Football: Why is India struggling to play the world’s most popular sport?

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup commences, the documentary "101 East" investigates the persistent challenges hindering India's progress in football, the world's most popular sport. Despite a large population and growing interest, India has consistently failed to qualify for the World Cup, with its highest FIFA ranking being 94th in 1996. The program highlights systemic issues within the Indian football landscape, including a lack of robust grassroots development, inadequate infrastructure, and a fragmented governance structure. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has faced criticism for its management and developmental strategies, with many stakeholders calling for significant reforms to professionalize the sport. The documentary points to a disconnect between the potential talent pool and the opportunities available for young players to develop and compete at higher levels. Furthermore, the report touches upon the cultural and economic factors that often divert athletic talent towards more established sports like cricket, which enjoys significantly greater investment and public attention in India. The narrative suggests that without substantial and sustained investment in coaching, youth academies, and professional leagues, India's aspirations to become a global footballing nation will remain unfulfilled.