NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli, the cricketing icon, has a close connection with Indian football through his co-ownership of FC Goa, a prominent team in the Indian Super League (ISL).
Kohli, known globally for his remarkable achievements on the cricket field, has also demonstrated a deep passion for football.
His involvement in FC Goa reflects his love for sports beyond cricket and his desire to contribute to the broader sports ecosystem in India.
The beginning of FC Goa and Kohli’s role
FC Goa was one of the eight original franchises of the Indian Super League, launched in 2014 to revolutionize Indian football.
Kohli, always a vocal football enthusiast, saw the opportunity to support the development of Indian football and became a co-owner of the Goa-based club.
His involvement was more than a mere financial investment; it was driven by genuine enthusiasm for the sport.
Kohli has often spoken about how football was a part of his early life, with the sport playing a significant role in his fitness regime.
He once remarked that if he weren’t a cricketer, he might have been a footballer.
His association with FC Goa provided a platform to channel this passion into action, supporting a team in a region that boasts a rich footballing culture.
Impact on Indian Football
Kohli’s presence brought much-needed visibility to the Indian Super League and FC Goa.
His vast fan following in India and abroad helped draw attention to the league, contributing to its growth and popularity.
As one of the biggest names in Indian sports, Kohli’s involvement added credibility and legitimacy to the ISL, which was still in its nascent stages when FC Goa was launched.
While Kohli himself admits he is still learning the intricacies of football ownership, his influence extends beyond the financial aspect.
His endorsement of youth development programs, grassroots initiatives, and his advocacy for creating a sports culture in India have positively impacted the sport.
FC Goa, under Kohli and the other owners, has become one of the most competitive teams in the league, known for its attacking style and fostering local talent.
A shared vision
For Kohli, owning a football team aligns with his broader vision of promoting sports in India.
He believes that football has the potential to grow, and his involvement with FC Goa is a step towards building a culture where football is as popular as cricket.
His journey with FC Goa highlights his commitment to contributing to the rise of football in India while balancing his own legendary cricket career.
Kohli, known globally for his remarkable achievements on the cricket field, has also demonstrated a deep passion for football.
His involvement in FC Goa reflects his love for sports beyond cricket and his desire to contribute to the broader sports ecosystem in India.
The beginning of FC Goa and Kohli’s role
FC Goa was one of the eight original franchises of the Indian Super League, launched in 2014 to revolutionize Indian football.
Kohli, always a vocal football enthusiast, saw the opportunity to support the development of Indian football and became a co-owner of the Goa-based club.
His involvement was more than a mere financial investment; it was driven by genuine enthusiasm for the sport.
Kohli has often spoken about how football was a part of his early life, with the sport playing a significant role in his fitness regime.
He once remarked that if he weren’t a cricketer, he might have been a footballer.
His association with FC Goa provided a platform to channel this passion into action, supporting a team in a region that boasts a rich footballing culture.
Impact on Indian Football
Kohli’s presence brought much-needed visibility to the Indian Super League and FC Goa.
His vast fan following in India and abroad helped draw attention to the league, contributing to its growth and popularity.
As one of the biggest names in Indian sports, Kohli’s involvement added credibility and legitimacy to the ISL, which was still in its nascent stages when FC Goa was launched.
While Kohli himself admits he is still learning the intricacies of football ownership, his influence extends beyond the financial aspect.
His endorsement of youth development programs, grassroots initiatives, and his advocacy for creating a sports culture in India have positively impacted the sport.
FC Goa, under Kohli and the other owners, has become one of the most competitive teams in the league, known for its attacking style and fostering local talent.
A shared vision
For Kohli, owning a football team aligns with his broader vision of promoting sports in India.
He believes that football has the potential to grow, and his involvement with FC Goa is a step towards building a culture where football is as popular as cricket.
His journey with FC Goa highlights his commitment to contributing to the rise of football in India while balancing his own legendary cricket career.
