Uncertainty Surrounds the Future of the Indian Super League
Panaji: There is growing uncertainty regarding the future of the Indian Super League (ISL) after several clubs received a message from the league organizers that the next season will not begin until there is clarity on the Master Rights Agreement (MRA).
Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), a partnership between Reliance and Star that oversees the league, has been in a contract with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) which dates back to 2010. Currently, the agreement stipulates that FSDL pays AIFF either an annual fee of ₹50 crore or 20% of total revenue, whichever is higher. This contract is set to expire in December.
A source informed us that senior FSDL officials have met with club owners recently, stating that the ISL cannot start without a definitive future for the MRA. The ongoing situation is complicated further by the Supreme Court’s deliberations on a new constitution for the AIFF, causing significant tension among stakeholders.
Due to these meetings in Mumbai, many clubs are now reevaluating their plans. While some are delaying major player signings for the upcoming season, others have put off their pre-season training. This hesitation raises questions about their participation in the Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament, which will be held from July 23 to August 23.
Sources reveal that FSDL is eager to maintain its partnership with Indian football. However, instead of continuing with the previous cash-based deal, they have proposed the creation of a new holding company to oversee and manage the ISL. In this new setup, participating clubs would own 60%, FSDL would hold 26%, and AIFF would have a 14% stake.
FSDL aimed to finalize a term sheet by April 30, but instead, the AIFF formed a task force to negotiate with FSDL, a decision met with criticism from some Executive Committee members. Notably, former Indian captain Bhaichung Bhutia advised patience until the Supreme Court determines the AIFF’s new constitution.
The Supreme Court has instructed that no decisions should be made regarding the renewal of the MRA until further directives are issued, which is expected once the court resumes its sessions after July 14.
As per the draft constitution, it specifies that India’s top league must be managed exclusively by AIFF, with stipulations that its management cannot be delegated to any other entity.
One club official characterized the situation as difficult, while others believe FSDL may request a six-month extension to allow more time for all parties to adapt to the changing landscape.
A club CEO mentioned, "Much depends on the Supreme Court’s ruling. Once the AIFF’s constitution is finalized, we need to assess the future of the top-tier league. With possible elections on the horizon, many things could shift. It’s vital that we, as clubs, are given at least a year to navigate any unexpected changes."
The ISL launched on October 12, 2014, and gained recognition as India’s top domestic league by FIFA and AFC in 2019.
