FIFA delegation calls on Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal

New Delhi: Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday met a high-level FIFA delegation, led by Secretary General Jerome Valcke, and promised support for the organisation of the Under-17 Football World Cup in 2017.

Praful Patel, Chairman of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), was also present during the meeting.

"Valcke briefed the Minister about the keenness of FIFA to develop and popularize football at the grass-roots level in India. He urged the Sports Ministry to provide support to make Under-17 World Cup a success," a release from the ministry said.

"He stressed the need for upgradation of infrastructure like stadia dedicated to football so that India which is full of talent and potential can provide best facilities to its young and upcoming football players," the release added.

Sonowal, welcoming the suggestions given by the FIFA, said the Government will extend all possible support to make Under-17 World Cup a success, according to the release.