The four-day programme brought together more than 30 coaches from the OSCAR Foundation for a series of classroom and practical on-pitch sessions focused on the League’s coaching methodologies. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

INDIAN FOOTBALL

Premier League launches coach initiative to India

The Premier League hosted the inaugural edition of its NEXTGEN Coach Programme in Goa from 10 to 13 May 2026, marking another significant milestone in the League’s longstanding commitment to supporting the growth of grassroots football in India.

The four-day programme brought together more than 30 coaches from the OSCAR Foundation for a series of classroom and practical on-pitch sessions focused on the League’s coaching methodologies.

The sessions were delivered by Premier League international community coaches, supported by Indian coaches who have been long-standing members of the League’s in-country delivery team and are now leading community football programmes and inspiring the next generation through the game.

Through the NEXTGEN Coach Programme, the Premier League leverages its expertise and nearly 20 years of global experience to support coaches in their local communities by equipping them with the skills and confidence to deliver football sessions that are safe, inclusive and fun, ensuring more young people can access high-quality football that supports their personal development.

- Team Sportstar

MOTORSPORT

Muddappa crowned champion after IMSAC verdict, seals historic 18th National title

Bengaluru’s Hemanth Muddappa of Mantra Racing has officially been declared the 2025 National Champion in the premier unrestricted class after the Indian Motor Sports Appeals Court (IMSAC) restored his title from the final round of the MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Drag Racing Championship held last December.

The ruling not only restores Muddappa’s victory in the championship-deciding round at the Madras International Circuit, but also elevates the rider popularly known as India’s ‘Drag King’ to a historic milestone — his 18th National title — making him the most decorated two-wheeler National champion in Indian motorsport history.

The feat also underlines one of Indian drag racing’s most successful rider-tuner partnerships, with Muddappa and long-time tuner Sharan Pratap combining for all 18 National crowns over the years.

The controversy stemmed from an alleged jump start during the final run of the Unrestricted category. Muddappa immediately contested the decision, maintaining that there was no forward or backward movement of the motorcycle.

“It took longer than expected, but what’s rightfully yours will always find its way back. I won it on track, fair and square, when it mattered the most. Justice has now prevailed, and I thank IMSAC for standing by what is right,” Muddappa said.

- PTI

Published on May 14, 2026