Goa: The Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 unveiled the official logo for the tournament on Tuesday in a star-studded affair, which was attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa at the Marriott Hotel in Goa, India.
The FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 represents a landmark moment for Asian football as the world’s second most populous nation prepare to host their first ever FIFA event.
Shaikh Salman said: “Today marks another step on the road to footballing history.
“Earlier this year when I launched the AFC’s Vision and Mission I declared this to be Asia’s time to shine – and now I add that this is India’s time.
“We have a great opportunity to unleash the massive potential that exists in this country for football. Whether you will be in the North East in Bengal or the South in Bengaluru or Chennai or here in Goa – there is a love of this great game.
“Now FIFA have honoured India, a country with an exciting football future, with a tournament which will showcase the stars of tomorrow.”
The launch coincided fittingly with the ongoing AFC U-16 Championship India 2016, which is currently in the semi-final stage and also serves as the qualifiers for next year’s tournament. The emblem, which comprises elements of the banyan tree, the kite and the starburst, was designed as a celebration of the country’s richness and diversity of cultures.
Shaikh Salman added: “After watching the support and organisation around the AFC U-16 Championship India 2016 being held here – as well as the AFC Annual Awards in Delhi last year – I know India is ready for the challenge.
“I know that they will do themselves, football in Asia and world football proud with a tournament to remember.”
Photo: AFC
Source: the-afc.com