June 29, 2026
MYJ Mumbai expresses its deep concern over the proposal approved by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to convert the Neville D'Souza Football Ground in Bandra into a convention centre.
For over a decade, the Neville D'Souza Football Ground has been much more than a playing field. As the home of the Mumbai Football Association (MFA), it has served as the heart of football in Mumbai, hosting competitions across every age group and providing opportunities for more than 600 teams and over 12,000 players each season. Countless coaches, referees, volunteers, parents and football enthusiasts have contributed to building a thriving football ecosystem around this historic venue.
Mumbai is already grappling with a severe shortage of open spaces and sporting infrastructure. The loss of one of the city's very few dedicated football grounds would have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only competitive football but also grassroots development, youth participation and the dreams of thousands of young boys and girls who aspire to represent their clubs, the city, the state and the nation.
At a time when Indian football seeks greater participation and improved standards, cities like Mumbai should be investing in world-class football infrastructure rather than reducing the limited facilities that already exist. Sport is not merely recreation-it promotes health, discipline, inclusion and community development. Every investment in sport is an investment in the future of our youth.
MYJ Mumbai stands firmly with the Mumbai Football Association and the entire football fraternity in appealing to the Government of Maharashtra, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, and all concerned authorities to reconsider this proposal. We respectfully urge them to explore alternative solutions that preserve this iconic football ground while addressing the city's developmental needs.
We believe progress and preservation can coexist. Mumbai deserves convention centres, but it also deserves sporting spaces that inspire generations and nurture talent. Once a football ground is lost, it is rarely replaced.
We remain hopeful that wisdom, dialogue and the larger interests of the sporting community will prevail. Together, let us protect football in Mumbai and ensure that future generations continue to have a place to dream, compete and succeed.
MYJ Football Club
