Sunil Chhetri Joins FIFA Player Impact Programme to Drive Global Social Change

Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri has officially joined the second edition of FIFA’s Player Impact Programme, a global initiative designed to empower professional footballers to leverage their influence for meaningful social change. The 42-year-old, who enjoyed a distinguished international career representing India in over 150 matches between 2005 and 2025, is now focused on applying the skills gained through the programme to address critical societal issues.

The initiative, which is supported by world football’s governing body and external specialists in social impact, provides participants with the necessary resources and guidance to transform their personal visions into concrete community projects. Chhetri, who serves as the programme's first male participant, is working alongside a diverse group of international athletes to champion causes such as mental health awareness, education, and the promotion of equal access to sports.

The programme’s expansion to include male footballers follows a successful women-only pilot project in 2025. FIFA officials have highlighted that while these athletes are celebrated for their performances on the pitch, the initiative aims to ensure their legacy extends far beyond their playing careers. By utilizing their public profiles and personal resources, participants are encouraged to tackle challenges they may have encountered during their own lives and careers.

The initiative is set to continue its momentum later this year, with the next phase scheduled for December. During this upcoming stage, participants will convene in London and engage in a series of virtual sessions. These meetings will serve as a platform for the athletes to present their specific social projects, marking the transition from the learning phase to the active implementation of their community-focused goals.