AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon has begun his India visit in Mumbai, describing the country as a market of growing opportunity as the league looks to deepen its international reach.
“Starting the week here in Mumbai really brings home the scale of opportunity for AFL in India,” Dillon said.
The week-long visit forms part of the AFL’s longer-term strategy to build a foothold in India, which the league views as one of the world’s largest and fastest growing sports markets. Dillon is scheduled to meet sports commissioners, business figures and community leaders before travelling to Ranchi later in the week for the AFL India National Championships.
“India is one of the world’s largest and fastest growing sports markets, and we’re seeing genuine momentum, with close to 10,000 people currently playing footy across the country,” Dillon said.
Australian rules football has been played in India since 2008, when participation began with about 150 players. Since then, more than 20,000 people across 11 states have taken part in the game. The 2026 AFL India National Championships will be held in Ranchi, Jharkhand, from 30 January to 1 February, featuring around 250 male players and more than 45 women.
I’m looking forward to meeting with a range of business and community leaders over the coming days, and I can’t wait to attend the AFL India National Championships in Ranchi this weekend: AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon
Broadcast and language access have become part of the AFL’s India strategy, aimed at reaching audiences beyond traditional markets. “The first ever AFL broadcast in Hindi during last year’s Cultural Heritage Series between the Western Bulldogs and GWS was a significant milestone in opening the game up to new audiences, and we’re excited to be delivering that initiative again this year,” Dillon said.
The trip also reflects a broader effort to link international growth with engagement at home. An India-Australia roundtable held last year, involving Dillon, Dr Sushil Kumar, the Consul-General of India, and the Centre for Australia India Relations, explored ways the AFL could better connect with the Indian diaspora in Australia.
That conversation has fed into wider ambitions for the code. With a goal of reaching one million participants by 2033, the AFL is seeking to make the game more accessible to diverse audiences through initiatives such as alternate-language broadcasts, the returning Cultural Heritage Series and the AFL Desi platform.
“I’m looking forward to meeting with a range of business and community leaders over the coming days, and I can’t wait to attend the AFL India National Championships in Ranchi this weekend,” Dillon said.
As the visit unfolds, the league’s focus remains on turning early interest into sustained participation, both in India and among Indian communities in Australia.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
