Meet Sarpreet Singh: Indian-Origin Footballer Who Made It To FIFA World Cup, But He Is Not The First

When New Zealand walked onto the pitch for their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G opener against Iran, history was quietly being made. Amid the spotlight on the All Whites, one name captured the attention of football fans across India and the global Indian football community: Sarpreet Singh.

The Indian-origin midfielder was named in New Zealand's starting XI and completed 90 minutes before being substituted in the thrilling 2-2 draw against Iran. While he did not find his name in the score sheet, his appearance marked a significant milestone for players of Indian descent on football's biggest stage.

ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup France vs Senegal: Kylian Mbappé, Sadio Mané Among Stars Who Can Decide The Contest | Details

For many Indian fans, Sarpreet's World Cup debut felt like a long-awaited connection to a tournament that India has never qualified for. Yet, despite the historic moment, Sarpreet Singh is not the first footballer of Indian origin to play in the FIFA World Cup.

India may not be among the 48 nations competing at the FIFA World Cup 2026, but Sarpreet Singh's presence in New Zealand's starting XI provided a proud moment for football fans connected to the country.

Who Is Sarpreet Singh?

Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Sarpreet Singh’s family roots to Jalandhar in Punjab. The attacking midfielder emerged through New Zealand's youth system before making a name for himself with Wellington Phoenix.

His performances earned him a dream move to German giants FC Bayern Munich in 2019, where he featured for both the reserve and senior teams.

Now 27, Singh has become one of the most recognizable faces in New Zealand football. Known for his creativity, vision and technical ability, he has represented the All Whites at youth and senior levels and played a crucial role in helping them reach the FIFA World Cup 2026.

His appearance against Iran made him the first Indian-origin player to start a World Cup match in the 23rd edition, further strengthening his growing popularity in New Zealand football.

Who is the First Footballer?

While Sarpreet's accomplishments have generated huge excitement, the distinction of being the first player of Indian origin to play at a FIFA World Cup belongs to Vikash Dhorasoo.

Born in France to a family of Andhra Pradesh ancestry, Dhorasoo represented France at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. His roots can be traced back to India, and he was part of the French squad that famously reached the final before losing to Italy on penalties.

👏 Join us in congratulating Sarpreet Singh on this historic achievement and let him know where you're cheering from in the comments!#SarpreetSingh #FIFAWorldCup2026 #SikhRepresentation #DreamBig #UNITEDSIKHS pic.twitter.com/ndRkMSlRtz

— UNITED SIKHS (@unitedsikhs) June 15, 2026

Therefore, while Sarpreet Singh has become one of the most prominent Indian-origin footballers at the FIFA World Cup 2026, he follows in the footsteps of Dhorasoo, who broke that record long back.
Although India remains absent from the World Cup, the growing representation of players with Indian ancestry provides fans with reasons to cheer and demonstrates the expanding influence of Indian football on the global stage.

ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026: Tunisia Sack Sabri Lamouchi After Humiliating 5-1 Defeat To Sweden in Opener

New Zealand Squad For FIFA World Cup 2026