The recently dismissed Igor Stimac had one of the longest reigns as head coach of the Indian football team.
The Indian football team recently bowed out of the running from the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. This was one of the many recent failures for the Blue Tigers under head coach Igor Stimac, increasing the pressure on his position. With one negative result after another, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) dismissed the Croatian tactician as the head coach of the national team on 17 June 2024.
The parting of ways with Igor Stimac brought an end to a five-year-long stint by the manager. Stimac took over the position in 2019, and the Blue Tigers experienced a rollercoaster of highs and lows under his leadership. Despite the mixed outcomes, he will be remembered as one of the longest-serving managers in the history of the national team. This prompts an intriguing look into where he stands among the top three longest-serving Indian national team head coaches. Here’s a look at the top three:
1. Stephen Constantine – 60 matches
Stephen Constantine holds the record for the longest term as head coach of the Indian football team. The Englishman first assumed the role in 2002, managing the team for three years until 2005. He returned for a second stint in 2015, remaining in charge until 2019.
Constantine’s dual tenure is notable for the significant improvements in the team’s performance and FIFA rankings. Under his guidance, the Blue Tigers’ FIFA ranking soared from 173 in March 2015 to 97 in December 2018. Over his two terms, he led the team in 60 matches—18 in his first stint and 42 in his second. His strategic approach and ability to inspire the team ensured his place in Indian football history as a transformative figure.
2. Igor Stimac – 46 matches
Igor Stimac’s five-year tenure saw him overseeing 46 matches as the head coach of the Indian football team. Appointed as the successor to Stephen Constantine in 2019, the Croatian head coach had a tenure marked by both successes and setbacks.
Stimac led India to multiple titles, including the SAFF Championship in 2021 and 2023, the Tri-Nation Series in 2023, and the Intercontinental Cup in 2023. Despite these victories, the failure to progress to the third round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers ultimately led to his dismissal. Under his leadership, the team recorded 19 wins, 12 draws, and 15 losses. Stimac’s period in charge will be remembered for its potential and the heights the team reached, even if it ended on a disappointing note.
3. Bob Houghton – 44 matches
Bob Houghton is the third longest-serving head coach of the Indian football team. The Englishman took over in 2006 and held the position until 2011, overseeing the team for 44 matches.
During Houghton’s tenure, the Blue Tigers won 14 matches, drew six, and lost 24 times. Despite the mixed results, Houghton led India to two Nehru Cup titles in 2007 and 2009, an AFC Challenge Cup triumph in 2008, and a runners-up finish at the SAFF Championship in 2008. His strategic input and ability to build a competitive team left a lasting impact on Indian football, establishing a foundation for future successes.
The tenures of Stephen Constantine, Igor Stimac, and Bob Houghton illustrate different eras of Indian football, each bringing unique challenges and achievements. Constantine’s record-breaking stint is marked by significant improvements in global standings and team performance. Stimac’s period was a mix of notable victories and frustrating failures, while Houghton’s leadership brought important regional titles. Each coach’s journey reflects their individual contributions to shaping the landscape of Indian football.