Indian footballers appeal to FIFA over ISL suspension
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AIFF to control both ISL and I-League
Clubs and commercial partners are represented in both proposed frameworks. However, the fundamental difference lies in the level of control provided.In the proposed ISL framework, the AIFF has retained final authority and veto power over key decisions, which is not the case in the I-League proposal.The AIFF proposed two bodies for the ISL, one a Board of Governors and another to manage the day-to-day operations.The Board of Directors will consist of the AIFF President or the AIFF General Secretary, the AIFF Vice President, the AIFF Treasurer, one representative from each club, three representatives of the rights partner or broadcasting company for which a proposal is pending and two independent members.The Steering Committee will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the league. It will include the AIFF General Secretary, AIFF Head of Competitions, AIFF Head of Strategy, five club representatives and three rights partner representatives.
The AIFF retains control over the functioning of the ISL
Although the ISL Board of Governors is not expected to meet frequently, the AIFF has effectively retained control. All decisions require a simple majority, but at least two affirmative votes must come from AIFF representatives. As a result, the results will largely be determined by the AIFF officials.Revenue sharing, allocation of prize money, significant budget changes, broadcasting or commercial rights matters, long-term agreements and contracts exceeding 1 million rupees will require the approval of the AIFF.
I-League clubs have a bigger say
While the AIFF will fully own and operate the I-League, the clubs will be collectively responsible for business and operational decisions.As with the ISL structure, the AIFF will have a say in matters of sporting integrity, compliance and disciplinary jurisdiction. However, the AIFF has chosen not to exercise veto power in matters relating to broadcast rights, digital or media rights, sponsorship, marketing, branding or commercial use.
The ISL clubs are not completely behind the proposed structure
Not all ISL clubs are happy with the current proposal shared by the AIFF. One official, who chose to remain anonymous, noted that the structure was not new and had previously been discussed within the Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL). The official added that the limited influence given to the commercial partner could again prove to be a hindrance when the AIFF invites bidders.Another ISL club official offered a different perspective, comparing the current draft to the FSDL era when clubs had little say in most governance matters.
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The I-League has proposed to start on February 19
On Friday, the AIFF also informed the I-League clubs about the proposed schedule for the second tier of Indian football. The 11-team league is expected to start on February 19 and last for 80 days.The I-League will be played on a home-and-away basis, with all teams playing five matches at home and five away. As a reminder of the 2020-21 season affected by COVID, the top six teams will advance to the play-offs, while the bottom five will fight to avoid relegation.