India in the clear to make bid for U-17 World Cup

India finally submits bid documents to host U-17 World Cup

The cloud of uncertainty over India submitting bid documents to host the U-17 World Cup has finally been lifted.

The stipulated deadline ended on Friday with the government of India furnishing the required guarantees so that AIFF can submit the documents to FIFA.

Bidding countries are required to submit written guarantees on tax exemptions for broadcasters and sponsors, foreign exchange remittances, security, transport and accommodation of players, and visa, among others.

“We have got the clearances from several ministries on the guarantees the FIFA requires from bidding countries. We have sent the guarantee documents signed by the concerned ministry authorities to the AIFF. The AIFF can now submit them to the FIFA,” a top Sports Ministry official told PTI.

“The guarantees were on eight different heads including security, tax exemption, foreign currency inflow,” he added.

AIFF general secretary, Kushal Das also confirmed the same.

“We have received the guarantee documents from the Ministry and so we are submitting to the FIFA. Let us see what happens,” he said.

The countries wishing to host the U-17 World Cup were required to submit a declaration of interest by May 15 and submit the hosting agreement with the complete Bid Book by November 15.

Three other nations — South Africa, Ireland and Uzbekistan — have already submitted their bids.