Chinese State Councilor Shen Yiqin visits the Beijing Youth Football Training Center in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 20, 2026. Shen paid a visit to youth football facilities in Beijing on Thursday, where she focused on the development of the youth football system. (Xinhua/Cao Can)
BEIJING, Aug. 21 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor Shen Yiqin has urged greater efforts to develop youth football and train future elite athletes as part of a broader push to strengthen the foundation of Chinese football.
Shen made the remarks during a visit to youth football facilities in Beijing on Thursday, where she focused on the development of the youth football system.
Shen visited the Beijing Youth Football Training Center and watched the Baidui Cup, one of the capital's major youth football tournaments. She said sustained efforts to develop youth football were needed to build a stronger foundation for the revitalization of Chinese football.
China should accelerate the construction of youth training centers at all levels, Shen said.
She called for stronger coaching systems, expanded campus football programs and an improved competition structure, while stressing the importance of sports ethics and discipline. She also urged greater efforts to develop more elite players.
China has made youth development a priority in its long-running effort to improve football standards, with grassroots training viewed as a key area for producing internationally competitive players.
Shen also visited Xiannongtan Sports School, where she stressed the need to deepen the integration of sports and education. She called for better coordination between academic studies and athletic training to develop more well-rounded athletes for competitive sports. ■
