Future city to feature world-class sports facilities, says Minister Azharuddin

The proposed “Future City” on the outskirts of Hyderabad is set to become a hub for sports development, with extensive facilities planned, said Telangana Minority Affairs Minister and former cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin on Tuesday.

Speaking at a panel discussion on sports during the Telangana Rising Global Summit, Azharuddin highlighted the personal interest and commitment of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy in promoting sports, which he said would lead to significant improvements in the state’s sports infrastructure. “Telangana has already made notable progress in sports development, but with Future City, we can expect revolutionary changes. Comprehensive sports facilities will be readily accessible to athletes there,” he added.

When asked about measures for women athletes following India’s Women’s World Cup triumph, Azharuddin emphasized the Chief Minister’s passion for sports and revealed that he himself is a sports enthusiast. He noted that on December 13, he would play football alongside his favorite player, Lionel Messi, as part of Messi’s “GOAT Tour to India 2025,” in an event open to the public. The minister also stressed the importance of skill development for young athletes, advising them to focus on the sport where they have natural talent rather than spreading themselves thin.

Olympic medalist P.V. Sindhu highlighted the need for robust coaching and support systems to nurture young talent. “Every athlete requires individual attention and specialized training for their skills to truly shine,” she said.

Former badminton star Jwala Gutta stressed strengthening the role of coaches in state sports policies. She suggested that policies should allow coaches to focus full-time on athletes to ensure maximum development.

Cricketer Ambati Rayudu pointed out that currently, only athletes with financial resources enjoy significant opportunities. He urged the government to provide comprehensive facilities so that athletes from underprivileged backgrounds can also progress.

Telangana Sports Authority Chairman Sivasena Reddy said that new coaches are being recruited, and initiatives are underway to set up sports grounds from the village level up. He added that the government is addressing challenges to create a stronger sports environment in the state.

Former MP and state sports advisor A.P. Jitender Reddy mentioned that the government has already released its sports policy and is continuing the establishment of a dedicated sports university. He also noted that the state has requested permission from Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to host the Khelo India Games in Telangana and has proposed allocating the National Games to the state, with support from Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha.