FIFA World Cup: For India, qualification is still just a distant dream

What the report says

Al Jazeera, carrying a Reuters report published July 28, 2026, says India’s hopes of reaching a FIFA World Cup remain remote after the national team failed to qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup. The report frames that setback against the enthusiasm of Indian fans during the 2026 World Cup, including supporters who travelled long distances to watch matches abroad while still waiting to see India on football’s biggest stage.

The article points to long-running structural problems in Indian football. India, despite a population of about 1.45 billion, is ranked 138th in the world, while smaller nations such as Curacao and Cape Verde reached the 2026 tournament. People quoted in the report cite weak youth development, limited football popularity outside states such as West Bengal, Goa, Kerala, Mizoram and Manipur, and difficulties for the All India Football Federation in coordinating state bodies and other stakeholders.

The domestic club game is also described as unsettled. The Indian Super League, launched in 2014 with Reliance Industries backing, has entered a period of uncertainty after the AIFF and Reliance did not renew their partnership amid talks linked to a Supreme Court case over a new federation constitution. Under club-led management, the league had not finalised a broadcaster or fixtures, according to the report.

Al Jazeera/Reuters also notes debate over possible reforms, including stronger grassroots competitions, more qualified coaches and a proposed “sports passport” for Indian-origin athletes as India explores a 2036 Olympics bid. The overall picture is of a large football market with passionate fans, but without the system needed to make World Cup qualification in 2030 or 2034 likely.