India to host Women's Blind Football Championship in 2025

The Indian Blind Football Federation (IBFF) has announced that it will host the 2025 IBSA Women’s Blind Football World Championship at the United Sports Centre in Kakkanad, Kochi, Kerala, from October 2 to 12, 2025.

This landmark event marks the first time India will host a Blind Football World Championship, placing the country at the heart of global blind football and spotlighting its burgeoning football community. IBFF Patron Roby Kannanchira unveiled the world championship logo as part of a year-long promotional campaign for the event.

The prestigious tournament will showcase the finest talent in blind football from around the world and provide an exceptional platform for the sport's growth and development. This Championship is a significant milestone for the Indian Blind Football Federation, which has been working diligently to promote and advance the para sport in India. The event is expected to draw teams and spectators from across the globe, offering a unique opportunity for India to demonstrate its capability and commitment to supporting and growing inclusive sports.

Naresh Singh Nayal, National Team Goal Guide, said, “The development of women players is more important as they are not getting enough chances in our society. I hope this championship will help us reach more people, and that individuals from every village in India will watch this championship, which will help us get more players.”

Sunil J. Mathew, the director and coach of the Indian blind football team, announced India’s hosting of the IBSA Women’s World Cup, marking a significant milestone.

He added, “The Indian team can perform well and achieve more if the government and corporate support these initiatives. Our main goal is to make it to the 2028 Paralympic Games in LA, and we are confident that our team's performance is developing day by day.”

Nirmaben, captain of the Indian women’s blind football team, said, “I came into sports through some of my male blind football friends, and now I have visited a few countries and played for India—all because of blind football. I am excited to play in the World Cup on home ground.”

David Absalom, Honorary General Secretary for IBSA (Indian Blind Sports Association), said, “We look forward to collaborating with local authorities, sponsors, and volunteers to ensure a successful and memorable World Championship. The event promises to enhance the profile of blind football in India and inspire future generations of athletes.”

In 2025, India will also be hosting the IBSA Men's Nations Cup and the IBSA Men's Asian-Oceania Championship Division 2 alongside this tournament.

Expected teams for the World Championship

Japan, India, Germany, England, Argentina, Sweden, Morocco, Austria

Tags : Football, Women, Indian Blind Football Federation, Kochi, Roby Kannanchira, Delhi, Nirmaben