The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced the extension of senior national team head coach Igor Stimac's contract until 2026 on Thursday, October 5. This decision comes in light of his successful tenure, which witnessed three title victories in 2023.
The contract stipulates that the Croatian Stimac will receive an automatic two-year extension if India advances to the third round of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Additionally, former India defender Mahesh Gawli, previously the assistant coach for the senior men's team, has been promoted to head coach of the men's U-23 team.
Stimac, who was part of the Croatian team that secured third place in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, assumed the reins of the Blue Tigers in 2019. Under his guidance, the team clinched four significant titles, including two SAFF Championships.
During a virtual session, AIFF secretary-general Shaji Prabhakaran stated, "The federation, the members have decided to extend the contract of our national team, Igor Stimac, until the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers." As Prabhakaran made this announcement, both Stimac and Gawli were present alongside him.
Stimac's recent achievement includes leading the Indian men's team to the round of 16 at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, marking the first time in over a decade that the team has reached this stage in the continental event.
Highlighting the team's recent successes, Prabhakaran emphasized the importance of continuity, saying, "We are seeking to ensure stability in the national team... The process cannot be halted in between."
After AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey proposed the extension, Stimac expressed his gratitude, stating, "I feel a part of this family. I have huge trust in my staff. I appreciate the AIFF for placing their trust in us."
India made it to the Round of 16 in the Asian Games 2023 campaign.
In other news, the AIFF revealed that the I-League is scheduled to commence on October 28, with the fixtures to be announced shortly
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