AFC 'deeply concerned' over ISL suspension, seek clarity from AIFF

AFC warn AIFF over India’s participation in ACL 2.

The Indian Super League (ISL) going into an indefinite halt, has left the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) worried and seeking clarity on the issue.

Datuk Seri Windsor John, the AFC general secretary, wrote to AIFF deputy secretary general M Satyanarayan demanding clarity on the matter following ‘absence of official communication from the AIFF’ and having to follow the case through media reports.

In the letter to the AIFF, the continental body described the halt as “deeply concerning” and warned of the wider risks it poses to Indian football.

“The indefinite suspension of India’s top-tier league is deeply concerning, given its disruption to clubs’ operations, delayed salaries, and the wider threat it poses to the stability of domestic and continental football. This also leads to the question of whether the AIFF will lose the authority to issue club licences under the current circumstances.” the letter stated.

Also Read: FIFA–AFC warn AIFF to end crisis and adopt new constitution by 30 October or face ban

AFC seek detailed report from AIFF

The AFC has asked the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to submit a factual report on several key areas. This includes the progress of commercial negotiations with Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the timeline of the pending Supreme Court ruling, and the direct impact on clubs, players, and officials.

The governing body also requested concrete details on measures being taken to resume the league and safeguard stability. AIFF, however, has sought more time and promised to respond after the next Supreme Court hearing on Thursday.

“We request that the AIFF submit a factual report to the AFC by Monday, 25 August 2025. This should clarify the status of commercial negotiations, the involvement and timeline of the Supreme Court of India’s ruling on the AIFF Statutes and other matters, the impact on affected clubs and stakeholders, and concrete measures being taken to resume the league and safeguard stability. Such information is critical for the AFC to properly assess the current situation and determine the next steps,” the letter read.

At the centre of the crisis lies the unresolved renewal of the 15-year Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with FSDL, which expires on December 8. Due to the deadlock, FSDL has kept the ISL season on hold “until further clarity emerges on the contractual structure.”

Clubs under financial strain

The suspension has already begun to hurt clubs. According to TOI, three ISL teams – Odisha FC, Bengaluru FC, and Chennaiyin FC – have delayed player salary payments. Additionally, six other clubs have yet to begin pre-season training, leaving players in limbo.

The AFC warned that this growing uncertainty is not only damaging domestic football but also endangering Indian representation in continental competitions.

Threat to Indian clubs’ AFC participation

One major concern highlighted by the AFC is the potential disruption of India’s participation in the AFC Champions League Two, Asia’s second-tier club competition.

“We seek confirmation on whether qualification will be based on the 2025-26 ISL season as per precedent, or through alternative arrangements if the league does not proceed on schedule,” Windsor John stated.

He further added that the AFC expects AIFF to ensure Indian clubs remain eligible despite the current crisis.

 “We also would like to know in detail what steps the AIFF is taking to ensure Indian clubs remain eligible for continental competition despite current uncertainty,” it stated.

Calling the standoff a “domestic crisis with significant implications at the continental level,” Windsor John stressed the urgency of resolving the impasse.

“We trust the AIFF will address it urgently, in line with FIFA and AFC standards of governance and scheduling, while ensuring the welfare and stability of the clubs, players and officials, and safeguarding the representation of Indian clubs in the AFC competitions.” his letter concluded.

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