PM Modi Highlights India-France Football Connection During FIFA World Cup

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the Indian community in Paris, celebrating the deep-rooted connection between India and France through football. He expressed admiration for the French national team's popularity in India and wished them luck in the FIFA World Cup. The article also reflects on India's historic match against France in 1948 and highlights Vikash Dhorasoo, the first player of Indian origin to compete in a World Cup. With millions of fans following French football stars like Kylian Mbappe, the article showcases the vibrant football culture shared by both nations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2026, 23:52 IST

Celebrating Football Ties

During a recent event in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the strong bond between India and France, particularly through their shared passion for football. He acknowledged the immense popularity of the French national team and its players among Indian fans, wishing them success in the ongoing FIFA World Cup after their impressive opening match victory.

A Historic Football Encounter

India's first official international football match as an independent nation took place against France on July 31, 1948. The Indian team, playing mostly barefoot, put up a spirited fight, narrowly losing 2-1 after missing two penalty opportunities. Despite the defeat, they received a warm ovation from the audience.

The Dhorasoo Connection: Indian Roots in French Football

Vikash Dhorasoo, a former French footballer of Indo-Mauritian heritage, made history as the first player of Indian descent to participate in a FIFA World Cup. His ancestors, originally from Vizianagaram in Andhra Pradesh, migrated to Mauritius for work before his family eventually settled in France, where he was born in 1973. Dhorasoo has often expressed pride in his Indian roots.

He was part of the French national team during the 2006 World Cup in Germany, playing as a substitute in two matches, contributing to France's journey to the finals, where they finished as runners-up to Italy.

French Superstars and Their Indian Following

India boasts a vast football fanbase, with millions following not only local leagues but also top international competitions like the Premier League, Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga. French football icons such as Thierry Henry, Kylian Mbappe, and Zinedine Zidane enjoy immense popularity in India. Recently, Mbappe led France to a 3-1 victory over Senegal in their World Cup opener, surpassing Olivier Giroud's record to become France's leading goal-scorer.