India is making strides toward breaking into the top 10 Olympic rankings, marking a significant shift in the country’s global sporting stature. This optimistic forecast was shared by Katie Sadleir, CEO of the Commonwealth Games Federation, during her address at The Times Group ET NOW Global Business Summit 2025.
According to Sadleir, “India’s work is transformational.” She emphasized that with the right leadership, infrastructure, and passion, India is on the path to becoming one of the top 10 countries in the Olympics. This statement signals a clear commitment to achieving excellence in international sports competitions, highlighting India’s increasing focus on athletic development.
Sadleir spoke alongside Luciano Rossi, President of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF), during the session titled “Crafting the Champion Mindset: How Sports Shape Nations.” Together, they explored the powerful role sports play in shaping global perceptions of nations and enhancing national reputations. Sadleir emphasized that sports are a crucial component of soft power, helping countries build a stronger image on the world stage.
“Sports are hugely significant in creating the image of a country,” Sadleir stated. She explained that recognition as a sporting powerhouse enhances a nation’s influence globally. This aligns with India’s broader vision of leveraging sports to bolster its status and standing in international affairs.
India’s progress in sports infrastructure is a testament to its growing commitment to international competition. Sadleir acknowledged the world-class facilities that have been developed across the nation. “The political support and passion of the people here are amazing,” she said. “The will is there, and people understand the power of sports and the Commonwealth Games.” The increasing number of sports events being hosted in India, along with growing participation at international levels, indicates that the country is serious about competing with the world’s best.
The bid for the 2036 Olympics is a key milestone in India’s sporting aspirations. Sadleir believes that successfully hosting major events like the Olympics will significantly enhance India’s global influence. Additionally, such events will lay a solid foundation for athletes to compete at the highest levels. “Events like these will be crucial in elevating India’s global stature,” she added. Hosting the Olympics, in her view, would not only be a remarkable achievement for India but also a stepping stone toward gaining recognition as a global sports leader. Furthermore, having the 2030 Commonwealth Games in India would serve as the right step to set the stage for this larger ambition.
Supporting Sadleir’s perspective, Luciano Rossi echoed the importance of India’s growing role in the global sports landscape. Rossi, whose ISSF oversees 15 Olympic shooting events, pointed to the Junior World Cup in shooting, which is scheduled to be held in Delhi, as a key milestone in the country’s sporting journey. He highlighted that India’s efforts in cities like Delhi and Bhopal are proof of the country’s serious commitment to advancing in global sports. “India is working hard—not just in Delhi, but in Bhopal as well. These efforts are concrete actions that showcase India’s seriousness about the future of sports,” Rossi remarked.
Gender equality in sports is also a priority for the ISSF, and Rossi discussed how mixed-gender competitions could redefine the shooting sport. The ISSF has made significant efforts to ensure equal opportunities for men and women in shooting events. “We want to see how the results are when men and women compete together,” Rossi stated. “More women in sports is a priority for us, and ISSF is working hard on that.” This focus on gender equality reflects a broader effort to make sports more inclusive and accessible, ensuring that every athlete, regardless of gender, has an equal opportunity to excel.
Strong sports governance is another critical element of a country’s reputation, according to Sadleir. She stressed that the success of a country in sports depends on the right structures, decisions, and leadership. “How you are perceived as a country also depends on the right structure, the right decisions, and the right leaders in sports,” she said. Effective sports governance provides the foundation for sustained success and ensures that resources are used efficiently to develop and nurture talent.
Hosting international sports events can offer more than just national pride; they can also bring substantial economic and diplomatic benefits, said Rossi. He highlighted how international competitions serve as a platform for fostering cross-border collaboration. Even amid global conflicts, sports have the potential to bring nations together. “There are wars happening around the world, but sport has the power to bring nations together,” Rossi remarked. He pointed out that sporting challenges can serve as a channel for communication and mutual understanding, ultimately increasing goodwill among countries. This ability of sports to bridge divides is one of the key reasons why nations continue to invest in hosting such events.
India’s investment in sports infrastructure, its commitment to hosting major international events, and its focus on gender equality are all clear indicators of the country’s ambition to become a top-tier sporting nation. As India continues to nurture its athletes, build world-class facilities, and foster a culture of sports excellence, its future in the global sports arena looks increasingly promising. The road ahead is filled with exciting opportunities, and if the country continues on its current trajectory, breaking into the top 10 Olympic rankings may well be within reach.
In conclusion, India’s progress in the world of sports is undeniable, and its potential to become a top contender in the Olympics is rapidly becoming a reality. The combination of strong leadership, growing infrastructure, and a deep passion for sports has set India on the right path toward achieving global recognition in athletic excellence. With continued focus on developing the right governance structures, prioritizing gender equality, and hosting major international sporting events, India is poised to make a lasting impact on the world stage.
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