mandaviya-to-meet-aiff-clubs-to-resolve-indian-football-crisis

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will meet representatives of all stakeholders in Indian football, including the national federation, former commercial partners, and clubs, on 3 December to chart a way out of the ongoing crisis.

 

The latest turmoil followed the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) failure to secure a new commercial partner for domestic competitions, including the top-tier Indian Super League (ISL). Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the entity that owns and organised the ISL, had informed the AIFF in July that the league would be put on hold due to uncertainties surrounding the renewal of the 15-year Master Rights Agreement, which expires on 8 December.

 

A ministry source said, “The Supreme Court has directed that the ministry step in to figure a solution. This will be a day-long series of meetings with representatives of Indian football. They can raise their concerns, and the minister will give his suggestions accordingly.”

 

While the sport has faced multiple challenges, a positive development was the Supreme Court’s approval of a new AIFF constitution drafted by former apex court judge L Nageswara Rao. The court has also taken note of critical points raised by Rao in his report, seeking the government’s assistance to ensure a solution aligned with FIFA statutes and global best practices.

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The ministry has emphasised the need for participation from all relevant stakeholders, including ISL clubs, I-League clubs, lower-division teams, broadcasters, OTT platforms, FSDL, prospective commercial partners, and transaction advisors such as KPMG India Services LLP, to ensure effective deliberations.

 

Six meetings have been scheduled at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) on Wednesday, covering separate discussions with ISL clubs, I-League clubs, and FSDL.

 

Earlier, the minister had met I-League representatives and urged “constructive dialogue” to find a resolution. The I-League clubs have called for a common league partner to manage the ISL and the two I-League divisions under one umbrella, citing the need for consistent administration and stability in domestic football.

 

The minister’s intervention is seen as a crucial step towards restoring clarity and continuity in Indian football ahead of the new season.