FIFPRO Asia/Oceania has released a statement expressing its deep concern over the growing uncertainty in Indian professional football and has called for an immediate resolution. The global players’ body highlighted how the indefinite suspension of the 2025/26 Indian Super League (ISL) season is having a serious impact on the careers and livelihoods of professional players.
The ongoing dispute over the league’s organisation and governance has left players without a clear roadmap for the upcoming season. According to FIFPRO, players have been subjected to one-sided and unlawful suspensions of their employment contracts, which is a direct violation of their labour rights and is causing significant distress.
In a show of solidarity, the Football Players Association of India (FPAI) and FIFPRO have been in constant communication with affected players across the ISL. The matter has also been brought to the attention of both FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), underscoring the seriousness of the issue at an international level.
FIFPRO Asia/Oceania has now urged the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), and club owners to work together with the FPAI. The players’ union has outlined two key demands: first, to immediately confirm the ISL season schedule and provide a clear plan for its start, and second, to ensure that clubs fulfill all their contractual obligations to the players.
The statement concluded by reinforcing that the players, FPAI, and FIFPRO all remain committed to the long-term development of Indian football. However, it is clear that a swift resolution is needed to safeguard the future of the league and protect the careers of all involved.
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