For most football fans, the FIFA World Cup is an event watched from the comfort of their homes. For the President of FC Mangalore Mr. Farhaad Yenepoya, however, the 2026 edition became a once-in-a-lifetime experience as he travelled to the United States to witness the world’s biggest football tournament firsthand.
A lifelong footballer, dedicated fitness enthusiast, and passionate advocate for grassroots football, Mr. Yenepoya immersed himself in the electric atmosphere of the World Cup, attending several matches and experiencing the tournament from inside some of America’s iconic stadiums.
“The energy is impossible to describe unless you’ve experienced it,” he said upon his return to India. “The passion of supporters from every corner of the world, the quality of football, and the atmosphere inside the stadiums made every match unforgettable.”
Yet, it was not only the action on the pitch that left a lasting impression.
“The professionalism and organisation were exceptional,” he observed. “From transportation and security to fan engagement and stadium operations, every detail reflected years of meticulous planning. There is so much we can learn from these global standards.”
Known for leading an active lifestyle and promoting fitness among young athletes, he believes that football has the power to shape character as much as sporting ability.
With renewed enthusiasm and fresh perspectives, the club now looks ahead with a clear objective: to nurture the next generation of footballers and ensure that young talent from Mangalore dreams not only of watching the World Cup—but one day playing in it.
