AIFF Receives Prestigious Triple-A Certification from AFC

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has been awarded the prestigious Triple-A Certificate by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for its advanced technical programs. This recognition, announced during the AFC Technical Summit, highlights AIFF's commitment to football development across various areas, including coach education and grassroots initiatives. AIFF's Head of Coach Education, Vivek Nagul, emphasized the significance of this achievement as a motivator for further growth in Indian football. The accreditation process involved a comprehensive evaluation by AFC's technical team, showcasing AIFF's alignment with AFC standards and fostering ongoing collaboration between AFC and its member associations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 20, 2026, 08:47 IST

AIFF Achieves Triple-A Certification

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has been honored with the Triple-A Certificate by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), acknowledging its advanced technical program. This recognition follows the AFC Technical Summit that took place on March 19.

Insights into the AFC Triple-A Framework

This accreditation is part of the AFC's Triple-A framework, which encompasses Analysis, Advice, and Accreditation. It involves a systematic assessment of a Member Association's technical programs and systems. India was one of the 12 AFC member associations chosen for this evaluation. Additionally, the AFC's partnership with UEFA aims to align coaching education pathways, allowing AFC coaching licenses to be recognized by UEFA Member Associations.

AIFF's Response to the Recognition

Vivek Nagul, the Head of Coach Education at AIFF, expressed, "Receiving the esteemed Triple-A certification from the AFC is a significant acknowledgment of our collective efforts at AIFF. It motivates us to enhance our commitment to the growth and development of football throughout India. This accomplishment is a testament to the relentless dedication of our personnel and the steadfast support of our backroom staff, whose efforts have led to this global recognition."

Overview of the Evaluation Process

During the Technical Summit, AIFF showcased its initiatives in various areas of football development, such as coach education, grassroots programs, youth development, women's football, national teams, domestic competitions, and futsal. The AFC's technical team, led by Technical Director Andy Roxburgh, reviewed the presentation, which resulted in the awarding of the Triple-A Certificate. The evaluation included a thorough examination of AIFF's technical structure, discussions on development strategies, and program implementation. This accreditation highlights the federation's technical framework and its compliance with AFC standards. The Triple-A initiative also promotes ongoing collaboration between AFC and its Member Associations through regular technical exchanges, which include program analysis, expert advice, and follow-up action plans.