PM Modi Highlights India-France Football Connection Amid FIFA World Cup Excitement

Strengthening Ties Through Football

During a recent event in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the deep-rooted connection 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, expressing his best wishes for France in the ongoing FIFA World Cup following their impressive opening match victory.

Speaking to the Indian community in Paris, PM Modi remarked, "Football fever is sweeping across France, and the enthusiasm is equally palpable in India. The French team enjoys a significant following here. With a strong start in the World Cup, I extend my best wishes to them."

Historically, India faced France in its first official international match as an independent nation on July 31, 1948. Despite a narrow defeat of 2-1, the Indian team, playing mostly barefoot, received a warm ovation from the audience after missing two penalty opportunities.

Additionally, Vikash Dhorasoo, a former French footballer of Indian descent, made history as the first player of Indian origin to participate in a FIFA World Cup. His family hails from Vizianagaram in Andhra Pradesh, India, and migrated to Mauritius before settling in France, where he was born in 1973. Dhorasoo has often celebrated his Indian heritage.

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

India boasts a vast football fanbase, with millions following not only the national league but also prestigious leagues worldwide, including the Premier League, Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga. Renowned French players like Thierry Henry, Kylian Mbappe, and Zinedine Zidane are particularly beloved in India.

In their World Cup opener, Mbappe led France to a 3-1 victory over Senegal, surpassing Olivier Giroud's record with 58 goals, making him the leading goal-scorer for France and placing him among the top scorers in World Cup history.