Overview
- Thirteen of 14 ISL clubs told the AIFF they will play only if the federation waives participation fees, assumes all organisational and operational costs, and accepts no hidden liabilities.
- The clubs demanded a time-bound plan covering appointment of a commercial partner, finalized broadcast and revenue structures, and defined governance and risk-sharing frameworks, with a request for potential government backing.
- The response followed the AIFF’s 24-hour ultimatum to confirm participation and choose a truncated format so it can brief the AFC, the Sports Ministry, and the Supreme Court.
- The AIFF must submit outcomes to the Sports Ministry by January 2, with stakeholders likely to file documents when the Supreme Court returns on January 5.
- Two shortened formats are on the table for a hoped-for February start, while clubs have asked the AFC for a one-time waiver of its 24-match rule that, if denied, could jeopardize India’s ACL 2 slots including FC Goa’s playoff path.