Kushal Das served as AIFF general secretary for 12 years, playing a crucial role in the development and modernization of football governance in India. He stepped down from the position in 2022 due to health reasons after more than a decade of leadership within the federation.
During his tenure, India achieved several major milestones in international football administration. One of the most notable was hosting the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, the first FIFA tournament ever organized in the country. The event became the most-attended FIFA youth World Cup in history, highlighting the growing interest in football across India.
Under Das’s leadership, the AIFF also secured hosting rights for major international competitions such as the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup and the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. These events strengthened India’s reputation as an emerging destination for global football tournaments.
Another significant development during his tenure was the partnership between AIFF and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) in 2010. This collaboration led to the launch of the Indian Super League (ISL), which transformed the commercial landscape of Indian football and increased the sport’s popularity nationwide.
Kushal Das also focused heavily on grassroots development. The AIFF introduced initiatives such as the Golden Baby Leagues and structured age-group competitions to build a long-term player development system for young footballers across the country.
Before joining football administration in 2010, Das held important roles in international sports management. He previously served as Chief Financial Officer of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and worked with International Management Group (IMG) India.
An alumnus of St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, Das earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics before moving into sports administration.
The news that Kushal Das has died has triggered tributes from across the Indian football community. Many officials and former players have acknowledged his role in strengthening the AIFF and building the foundation for modern professional football in India.
Kushal Das leaves behind a legacy defined by administrative reforms, international tournament hosting, and long-term grassroots development that helped shape the future of Indian football.
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