New Delhi: Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor has welcomed the inclusion of two footballers of Indian heritage in national squads for the FIFA World Cup 2026, describing the development as a proud moment for the global Indian community and a reflection of the growing influence of the Indian diaspora in international sports.
In a post on X, Tharoor highlighted the selection of Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid in Qatar's national team and Nishan Velupillay in Australia's 26-member World Cup squad.
"A historic moment for Indian football fans. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, we will have two players of Indian heritage gracing the global stage," Tharoor wrote.
The Congress leader noted that 19-year-old winger Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid had become the first player of Indian origin to be selected for Qatar's national team, pointing to his family roots in Kannur, Kerala.
"19-year-old winger Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid makes history as the first player of Indian origin selected for the Qatar national team, carrying the immense pride of his family roots in Kannur, Kerala. Meanwhile, Australia's 26-man squad features Melbourne Victory's dynamic 25-year-old winger Nishan Velupillay, whose origins are in Tamil Nadu," he added.
The parliamentarian noted that while India has yet to qualify for a FIFA World Cup, the presence of players with Indian ancestry in the tournament offers a source of pride and inspiration for football fans of Indian origin around the world. He said their success underscores the importance of nurturing sporting talent and investing in grassroots football development.
