Indian football is staring at a standoff.
Thirteen of the 14 Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have told the All India Football Federation (AIFF) they are “ready and willing” to play the delayed 2025–26 season
— but only if strict financial conditions are met.
No participation fee. No hidden liabilities. And full financial responsibility taken on by the federation.
In a strongly worded letter sent on Thursday, the clubs made it clear their participation hinges on the AIFF covering all league-level organisational and operational costs, citing the absence of a commercial partner or broadcaster and the requirements of the National Sports Governance Act (NSGA), 2025.
The clubs also demanded a clear, time-bound roadmap outlining how the ISL will transition to a financially sustainable model. That includes firm deadlines for appointing a commercial partner, finalising broadcast and revenue structures, and defining governance and risk-sharing frameworks.
In short: no more uncertainty.
The letter, written by Sporting Club Delhi CEO Dhruv Sood on behalf of the clubs, was a response to the AIFF’s Wednesday ultimatum asking teams to confirm participation within 24 hours. Thirteen clubs signed on — including Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal, Kerala Blasters, FC Goa and Bengaluru FC — with Jamshedpur FC the lone absentee.
Given the proposed truncated format and lack of guaranteed revenue, the clubs insisted there should be no participation fee for the season. They also urged the AIFF to seek financial or institutional backing from the Government of India to help steady the ship during what they described as an “exceptional and transitional” period.
While firm, the tone was conciliatory. The clubs stressed they were acting in good faith, aiming to protect long-term stability rather than obstruct the season. They also expressed willingness to meet stakeholders on January 3, ahead of the Supreme Court reopening on January 5.
The stakes are high. With the ISL yet to kick off, clubs will almost certainly fail to meet the AFC’s mandatory 24-match requirement for continental competition. As a result, they have urged the AIFF to seek a one-time exemption to allow ISL teams into the AFC Champions League 2.
The AIFF, meanwhile, must submit its findings to the Sports Ministry by January 2.
(with PTI inputs)
