Sunil Chhetri becomes first male participant of FIFA Player Impact Programme; learns to turn ideas into social change

File Photo: Sunil Chhetri, who played 150 times for the Indian national team, has turned towards finding ways to create social change. | Photo Credit: PTI

Former Indian football captain, Sunil Chhetri, took part in the second edition of the ‘FIFA Player Impact Programme’ and wants to use the lessons he learnt to create positive change in communities that require the drive from someone who has the experience.

Chettri, who played more than 150 matches for India between 2005 and 2025, was part of the 11-person group that took part in the programme held in Boston, USA. The FIFA initiative intends to use their voices, platform and resources to help create positive social change.

“I’m really happy that I got this opportunity. I cannot wait to put those lessons into practice. I don’t think there is a difference (between) a man and a woman here, (we are) just meeting amazing personalities, some amazing top-class players from different countries,” said Chhetri

Some of the main causes the FIFA programme looked at were education, mental health, and equitable access. The footballers who took part in this programme brought in ideas and context, and the guidance they received from external specialists will be utilised to turn ideas into reality and later into change.

“Their influence is felt on the pitch, but the legacy they leave can reach far beyond football,” said the FIFA statement.

The first edition of the programme was held as an all-female programme, and many of them went on to successfully launch foundations, football academies, and partner with non-profit organisations to work towards the change they want to create.

This year, Chhetri became the first male participant in the programme and was joined by Spanish Women’s World Cup winner Alexia Putellas. To complete the programme, the participants will gather in London (or virtually) to present their projects in December.