Company logo to feature on the jerseys of three age-group teams competing in India and abroad over the next year

Mumbai,National : Mankind Pharma, one of India’s leading pharmaceutical companies, has partnered with Minerva Academy Football Club to support and promote the sport of football in the country. As part of the association, the Mankind Pharma logo will appear on the front and back of the jerseys of three of the academy’s age-group teams.

The teams will carry the company’s branding in matches played both within India and internationally through the year, giving the partnership visibility across some of the most competitive youth tournaments in world football.

Founded in 2015 by Ranjit Bajaj, Minerva Academy has grown into one of India’s most successful grassroots football institutions. The academy was crowned World Youth Champions in 2025 at the Gothia Cup in Sweden and has produced more than 240 internationals across age groups. Continuing its winning run, the Minerva Academy U-12 team, representing India, won both the Gothia Cup B-12, 2026 and the Helsinki Cup, 2026. Its work is anchored by the ambitious “World Cup Batch 2034” vision of helping India qualify for the FIFA World Cup.

“At Mankind Pharma, our purpose has always extended beyond medicine to the wellbeing of the nation. Football builds discipline, teamwork and ambition in our young people, and Minerva Academy has shown the world what Indian talent can achieve. We are proud to stand behind these teams as they carry the country’s hopes onto the global stage,” said Rajeev Juneja, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Mankind Pharma.

“This backing from Mankind Pharma comes at a defining moment for Indian football. Support from a homegrown leader allows our players to train, travel and compete with the very best, and brings us one step closer to our dream of seeing India at the FIFA World Cup. We are grateful for their belief in our young footballers,” said Ranjit Bajaj, Founder and Director, Minerva Academy Football Club.

Mankind Pharma’s support for Minerva Academy reflects its commitment to encouraging sporting excellence beyond cricket. While cricket enjoys widespread popularity in India, football is one of the world’s biggest sports and continues to inspire millions globally. Through this partnership, Mankind Pharma aims to support young footballers, encourage children and youth to build a career in the sport, and contribute to the growth of football in India by creating greater opportunities for emerging talent.