ISL Clubs Seek Clarity from AIFF on Future Plans
A recent development in Indian football sees the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs reaching out to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for more clarity on the immediate and long-term plans for the country’s premier domestic competition.
The 2025-26 ISL season was halted in July due to disagreements over renewing the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the league’s former organizers, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), and the AIFF. The existing deal was set to expire in December 2025, leading to a contractual impasse that required intervention from the Supreme Court.
Following the Supreme Court’s involvement, a tender was issued for ISL’s commercial rights, but unfortunately, there were no takers for it.
The clubs expressed in a letter addressed to the AIFF, through Mohun Bagan Super Giant CEO Vinay Chopra, the need for a comprehensive briefing on the long-term roadmap for the league. They also requested insights into the short-term plan before sharing their feedback in a constructive manner.
Despite a proposal from 10 ISL clubs for “perpetual” operational and commercial ownership of the competition, it failed to secure approval from the AIFF’s General Body on December 20. Subsequently, a committee was formed to further examine the matter.
The clubs remain hopeful that their proposal represents a sustainable path for Indian football and urge the AIFF to consider it in their long-term planning.
Regarding the short-term league proposal by the AIFF, the clubs seek more clarity on various aspects such as the revenue model, broadcast arrangements, and cost structures. They aim to better understand how costs will be allocated and who will bear them.
The AIFF panel has been tasked with engaging with representatives from five clubs, namely Chennaiyin FC, Mumbai City FC, Delhi Sporting Club, NorthEast United FC, and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, from December 22 to 29.
In their letter, the clubs emphasize their willingness to participate in the short-term league pending further details. They stress the importance of aligning short-term plans with a clear long-term strategy for the league’s sustainability.
This move by the ISL clubs highlights their commitment to shaping the future of Indian football and ensuring a collaborative approach with the governing body for the sport.
