The future of India’s top football league faces fresh turbulence. Ten Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have jointly sent a stern warning to the All India Football Federation (AIFF), accusing it of a “breach of trust” over the delay in finalizing the tender process for a new commercial partner.
According to Supreme Court instructions, the tender process to decide on the league’s commercial and organizational rights was to be completed by 15 October 2025. With that deadline long past and no updates or documents released, the clubs ran out of patience.
In a letter to AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey and the federation’s executive committee, the clubs expressed their “deep disappointment” at the lack of progress and communication. The letter was signed by Chennaiyin FC, Punjab FC, Hyderabad FC, Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, NorthEast United, Kerala Blasters, Odisha FC, Jamshedpur FC and Mumbai City FC. Notably, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal and Mohammedan Sporting were not part of the move.
Clubs demand answers from AIFF
The clubs reminded the AIFF of its joint submission to the Supreme Court in August, where it promised a fair and open bidding process to select a new commercial partner after the current deal with Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) ends in December 2025.
“It is very clear that we are yet to start the process, let alone complete it,” the clubs said. “The lack of communication from the AIFF has been deeply disappointing and the silence surrounding this matter has further eroded trust between the clubs and other stakeholders.”
The Supreme Court appointed former judge Justice Nageswar Rao to oversee the process, with KPMG India managing the selection process and evaluation. Yet, more than six weeks after the court deadline, there has been no official update, leaving clubs frustrated and uncertain.
What the letter asks for
- The clubs’ joint letter calls for immediate clarification and demands that the AIFF
- Share the current status of the tender process and when it will be launched
- Publish a definitive timeline for completing partner selection
- The letter also warned that repeated delays had made financial planning and sponsorship negotiations almost impossible.
“We have continued to work together and support the wider growth of Indian football, but this goodwill cannot continue to be taken for granted,” the statement said.
The situation comes at a particularly challenging time. Clubs have already been asked to prepare for the Super Cup in Goa, which is scheduled from October 25 to November 22, and have pledged to participate in good faith. Now that confidence is beginning to waver.
Many teams have invested heavily, from finalizing player contracts to fielding and staffing, and were expecting clear guidance on the league’s business framework. With no upcoming updates, these preparations have been thrown into limbo.
– The end
Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
October 16, 2025
