BRICS International Football Alliance Launches India Branch to Foster Unity

The BRICS International Football Alliance has launched its India branch, aiming to use football as a tool for peace and integration among member countries. Announced during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the initiative emphasizes the importance of sports in transcending cultural and political barriers. With support from various representatives, including Purnima Anand and Brazilian journalist Leonardo Attuch, BIFA India seeks to strengthen ties and promote dialogue among BRICS nations. The event highlighted Brazil's football legacy and the potential of sports to unite people, reinforcing the motto 'United by Football. Connected by BRICS.'

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 13, 2026, 16:46 IST

Introduction to BIFA India

The BRICS International Football Alliance (BIFA) has officially inaugurated its branch in India, aiming to leverage football as a means to promote peace, integration, and interpersonal connections among BRICS nations.

Announcement at the 18th BRICS Summit

The launch of BIFA India was revealed by Dr. Salem Humaid Saif Al Mazini, the founder and president of BIFA from the United Arab Emirates, during a gathering in New Delhi coinciding with the 18th BRICS Summit. The event saw participation from various representatives, including Purnima Anand, president of the BRICS International Forum, along with Russian partners and Brazilian journalist Leonardo Attuch, who is the founder of Brasil 247 and the Instituto Sul Global.

A Vision Beyond Football

Dr. Al Mazini articulated that sports serve as a straightforward yet impactful medium to unite societies, transcending national boundaries, cultural variances, and political conflicts. He emphasized that BIFA's mission goes beyond mere football events, focusing on fostering enduring relationships, collaboration, and peace.

Brazil's Football Legacy

He praised Brazil's rich football heritage, referring to it as a 'nation of football,' and noted that the cooperation established during the BRICS Summit in Brazil has significantly contributed to the alliance's objectives.

Support from BRICS Partners

Anand connected this initiative to the broader development of BRICS, highlighting the importance of people-centric growth and enhanced societal connections.

Attuch expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, underscoring the unifying power of sports. He advocated for the separation of sports from political issues and raised concerns regarding the limitations faced by Russian athletes.

Anastasia Dubrovskaia, a representative from the Agency for Strategic Initiatives in Russia, also voiced her support for BIFA's growth, emphasizing the societal significance of sports.

Conclusion

The launch event, themed 'United by Football. Connected by BRICS,' showcased football's potential to enhance cultural bonds, encourage dialogue, and forge closer ties among individuals within the BRICS community.