Indian Sports Report, May 14: Premier League brings NEXTGEN coaching initiative to India

INDIAN FOOTBALL

Premier League launches coaching initiative to India

The Premier League hosted the maiden edition of its NEXTGEN Coach Program in Goa from May 10 to 13, 2026, marking another major milestone in the League’s long-standing commitment to supporting the growth of grassroots football in India.

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

The sessions were delivered by coaches from the Premier League’s international community, supported by Indian coaches who are long-time members of the League’s local team and now lead community football programs and inspire the next generation through the game.

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

– Team Sportstar

MOTOR SPORTS

Muddappa crowned champion after IMSAC ruling, seals historic 18th national title

Hemanth Muddappa of Bengaluru-based Mantra Racing has been officially declared the 2025 National Champion in the first Unlimited class after the Indian Motor Sports Appeals Court (IMSAC) reinstated 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 national two-wheeler champion in the history of Indian motorsports.

This achievement also underlines one of the most successful partnerships between drivers and tuners in India, with Muddappa and long-time tuner Sharan Pratap taking 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 challenged the decision stating that there was no forward or backward movement of the motorcycle.

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

– PTI

Published on May 14, 2026