The All India Football Federation is facing a serious situation, which has led the Union Sports Ministry to step in and arrange an urgent meeting with all key groups. The main goal is to solve the commercial deadlock affecting the Indian Super League (ISL).
The government decided to intervene after the Supreme Court raised serious worries about the failed bidding process for the ISL’s commercial rights and the confusion this creates for the 2025–26 season. With pressure building, important groups—including ISL teams, I-League clubs, and TV broadcasters—have been called to New Delhi on December 3 to find a practical way forward.
The issue became more critical on November 21 when the Supreme Court reviewed the report from retired Justice L. Nageswara Rao. The Court pointed out that the AIFF failed to get even one single company to bid for the ISL’s essential commercial rights. Because of this, the Court ordered all involved parties to find a working solution within a strict two-week period.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the Court that the government was ready to help resolve the situation. He emphasized that the ISL must take place and confirmed the government’s willingness to support the process while strictly following FIFA’s rules.
Furthermore, the Court officially noted major concerns raised by team captains and the Amicus Curiae, legal advisor to the court, about players not being paid on time and the risk of a wider financial collapse in Indian football. The Court recognized that I-League and lower-division clubs are also struggling, suggesting the need for a full plan to stabilize the entire league structure.
The failure of the AIFF’s commercial bidding process quickly worsened the situation. With no bids received, the essential planning for the ISL came to a standstill. This prompted several clubs to warn authorities about major financial instability; for instance, reports show that Odisha FC has already delayed some salary payments. At the same time, I-League teams also contacted the Sports Minister, expressing their worries about their own season.
Following these critical events, the Sports Ministry made the decision to gather all sides together. The Ministry requested that representatives from ISL clubs, I-League teams, FSDL (Football Sports Development Limited), major broadcasters, OTT platforms, and potential business partners attend. The AIFF has also been specifically asked to ensure that KPMG, the financial advisor, is present to clear up any technical questions about the failed bidding process.
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