The Premier League wrapped up a week‑long fan and community event in Mumbai, India, on October 10. It was the league’s first big activity in the country after opening its Mumbai office earlier this year.
The schedule highlighted the Premier League’s long‑standing commitment to Indian fans and to growing grassroots football. Former Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle United striker Michael Owen headlined the program, drawing crowds of football lovers across the city.
The week started with Premier League Live, a fan‑park screening at the NESCO Centre that drew over 1,000 supporters. Fans watched live match‑day action, including games like Leeds vs. Tottenham, Man United vs. Sunderland and Arsenal vs. West Ham, and capped the day with Chelsea’s home win over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
Inside the screening area, fans could take photos with the iconic Premier League Trophy, play interactive football games, dance to live music, and enjoy food and drinks. Michael Owen joined the crowd, adding star power, and was seen playing a friendly cross‑sport challenge with Indian cricketer Sanju Samson. Samson took penalty kicks at Owen, who then bowled and batted in a playful showdown. Clips from the duel were posted on Star Sports and Premier League social media to let fans worldwide join the fun.
Later in the week, Owen met his former club fans at a meet‑and‑greet. He answered questions, ran a quiz, and took selfies with hundreds of supporters.
The finale focused on community outreach. The Premier League partnered with the British Council for its Community Coach Development Programme. Coaches from the Premier League, Brentford and Newcastle United trained 27 community coaches, who will spread football skills across India.
During a showcase at Cooperage Football Ground, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met local coaches and watched them work with 80 children from the Oscar Foundation. The coaches had travelled from all over India for the event, a testament to the league’s longstanding partnership with the British Council. Since 2005, the two organisations have trained more than 41,000 football coaches, referees and educators, benefiting over 2 million children in 29 countries.
Alison Barrett, Country Director India for the British Council, said the league’s work “empowers young people to grow, learn and thrive through sport.”
The event was part of the Premier League’s broader strategy to deepen ties with India and the UK. The league will keep working with partners like JioStar to bring more fan‑engagement activities and community projects to the Indian market.
Source: aninews
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