IKF Trials – Opening Doors to Football Dreams
A flagship talent-hunt where passion meets opportunity—bridging the gap between street football and club contracts.
A Platform for Every Player
The IKF National Trials are India Khelo Football’s flagship talent‑scouting program. Born from the belief that “Aap khelo, mauka hum denge”—you play, we provide the opportunity—these trials exist to bridge the gap between grassroots passion and professional pathways. Whether a youngster is mastering nutmegs on a dusty village pitch or captaining a school team in a metro, the National Trials give every aspiring footballer a level playing field to be seen by the right eyes.
Why We Run the Trials
- Democratising Access — Professional clubs can only reach so far on their own. By taking the trial to the player, we remove the cost and geography barriers that keep talent hidden.
- Nation-Building Vision — Each season, we expand our map—From 17 cities in year one, to 40, then 58, and over 100 last year— Now, with 125 cities on the horizon, we’re not slowing down. Because no dream should be left off the grid.
- Neutral & Non-Profit — IKF is not an academy, agent, or commercial scout. We evaluate talent objectively and hand clubs a shortlist they can trust, at zero cost to them or to the player beyond the first local screening.
How the Journey Works
| Phase | What Happens | Cost to Player |
|---|---|---|
| City Trials | Players register online and perform in front of scouts. | Nominal one-time fee |
| Zonal Finals | Short-listed players advance to zonal hubs. | Free |
| National Finals | Top talents play before ISL & I-League clubs. | Free |
Note: No fee beyond the first screening. Later phases run on donations and CSR grants.
What Parents Can Expect
- Transparent Scores — Shortlisted players receive a written report detailing strengths, gaps, and next steps.
- Safe Setup — Certified coaches, first-aid, strict age checks ensure player growth remains the focus.
- Girls Play Free — Registration fees waived for female footballers.
- No Hidden Hooks — IKF sells no academy seats, contracts, or agent deals. We only connect talent with real opportunities.
The Road Ahead
Season 5 (2025) is our boldest yet: 125 cities, 5 countries. If your child has the passion, the IKF National Trials have the stage.