A majority of Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have formally responded to the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) recent directive seeking confirmation of participation in the 2025-26 season, stating that they are willing to take part only if key safeguards are established in writing.
In a joint communication addressed to the AIFF, 13 ISL clubs excluding Jamshedpur FC outlined a set of conditions they believe are essential to ensure financial stability, transparency, and long-term sustainability of the league. The response comes after the federation’s December 31 letter asking clubs to confirm their participation and preferred competition format within a short deadline.
While the clubs stopped short of rejecting participation, they emphasised that any commitment must be aligned with the principles of the National Sports Governance Act (NSGA), 2025. They warned that proceeding without adequate clarity could expose clubs to financial and operational risks.
At the core of the clubs’ concerns is the absence of a confirmed commercial partner or broadcaster for the upcoming season. In their letter, the clubs have asked the AIFF to formally assume responsibility for league-level operational and organisational costs until such time as commercial rights are secured and monetised. According to the clubs, since the federation is the rights holder and competition organiser, it must bear the financial responsibility in the interim period.
The clubs have also sought a clear assurance that no participation fee would be levied for the 2025-26 season. They argue that a truncated format, combined with uncertainty over revenue streams, makes any such fee disproportionate and contrary to the principles of financial prudence outlined in the NSGA. Imposing additional financial burdens, they contend, could jeopardise the sustainability of multiple clubs.
Another key demand relates to cost allocation for the upcoming season. While the clubs have expressed willingness to continue covering team-related and routine operational expenses, they have insisted that league-level costs should be borne by the AIFF. The clubs have stressed that they cannot be exposed to open-ended or unpredictable liabilities, calling instead for financial certainty and defined risk-sharing mechanisms.
Beyond immediate financial concerns, the clubs have also called for a clear and time-bound long-term roadmap. This includes firm timelines for appointing a commercial partner or broadcaster, establishing a stable revenue-sharing model, and transitioning towards a financially self-sustaining league structure. The clubs have emphasised that clarity on these issues is essential to restore confidence and ensure long-term planning.
In addition, the clubs have urged the AIFF to seek support from the Government of India to help manage the transitional phase of the 2025-26 season. Citing the exceptional circumstances facing Indian football, they noted that government facilitation should be consistent with the objectives of the National Sports Governance Act in preserving institutional stability and sporting integrity.
While firm in their demands, the clubs stressed that their intent is not to obstruct the season. Instead, they described their position as a good-faith effort to ensure that participation in the league remains lawful, sustainable, and professionally governed. They also expressed willingness to engage in further discussions and have indicated their readiness to meet stakeholders on January 3, ahead of the Supreme Court’s reopening on January 5. As uncertainty continues to surround the future of Indian football’s top tier, the coming days are expected to be crucial.
For latest sports updates: Follow RevSportz
