Valanka Alemao elected first female president of Goa Football Association

Valanka Alemao has become the first woman to head a state football association in India after being elected president of the Goa Football Association (GFA). In a closely contested election, Alemao secured 83 votes, defeating the incumbent Caitano Fernandes, who received 67 votes. Out of 160 votes cast, 10 were declared invalid.

A lawyer by profession, Alemao has previously served as a member of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) executive committee for four years and as chairperson of the AIFF women’s committee. She is also slated to serve on the FIFA Women’s Football Development Committee for the 2025-29 term.

Alemao, the daughter of former chief minister and Churchill Brothers owner Churchill Alemao, stated that her victory is centered on transparency, accountability, and the goal to revive football in Goa. She emphasized that her leadership should be judged on capability rather than gender. Her dual role as GFA president and CEO of Churchill Brothers has raised questions regarding potential conflicts of interest.