AIFF release official statement amid speculations surrounding FIFA ASEAN Cup exit & Brazil friendly
Former India international Bhaichung Bhutia criticized AIFF’s decision to play Brazil.
Controversy and Indian football are often correlated on multiple of occasions. One such controversy arised recently when AIFF decided to pull out of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 due to the tournament’s dates clashing with the Brazil friendly which is set to be played on October 3rd.
Recently on this matter, the former India international Bhaichung Bhutia criticized the federation’s decision to priorities the Brazil friendly over the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. While speaking on a podcast with 420 Grams (YouTube), the former India International slammed AIFF and even alleged the President of AIFF, Kalyan Chaubey of using the emergency fund of the federation to pay an advance to the Brazilian Football Team for the invite.
But now, on this matter the All India Football Federation (AIFF) have issued an official statement regarding the speculations surrounding the FIFA ASEAN Cup exit and Brazil friendly. In this article, we take a look at what did the official statement say.
AIFF denies fine over FIFA ASEAN Cup withdrawal
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The AIFF responded to the criticism recently, rejecting the claims that the decision to not participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 will result in the federation paying a financial penalty.
The statement also addressed discussions surrounding the federation’s finances, with the AIFF describing it ‘unverified’ without any supporting documentation.
The statement starts with: “The AIFF condemns the incorrect claims that its decision not to participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 has resulted in a predetermined financial penalty or fine. The AIFF is also concerned about the public circulation of unverified figures and claims regarding its finances without any supporting basis or documentation.”
Also Read: Bhaichung Bhutia calls out proposed ₹50-70 crore for Brazil friendly as ‘wrong move’
Defends decision to host Brazil
The AIFF has also defended their decision to bring Brazil to India for a friendly, stating that the fixture was approved through the federation’s “appropriate institutional processes”. They further stated that this friendly will be a morale boost to Indian team while driving fans to Indian football.
“The decision to host five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil was taken through the appropriate institutional processes, recognising the exceptional opportunity it presents for Indian football, the national team and millions of fans. The match will give a morale boost to the Indian national team while driving fans towards Indian football, the impact of which is unquantifiable. The match is a mutually agreed international sporting opportunity between two football federations and should not be portrayed as a one-sided arrangement.”
“The AIFF respects the democratic right to express opinions on Indian football. However, statements concerning the Federation’s finances and use of funds must be based on facts and verifiable information.”
Strict actions against unverified claims
AIFF stated that the circulation of what they consider factually incorrect claims could potentially harm India’s reputation internationally.
AIFF also left the door open for further action if such claims continue.
“The circulation of factually incorrect statements has the potential to adversely affect India’s reputation and standing nationally and internationally. We believe those who have made these claims have the best interests of Indian football in mind and may be misinformed. “
“The AIFF, through this statement, seeks to make all aware of the facts. Should the concerned person(s) continue to disseminate incorrect claims, the AIFF will pursue appropriate legal remedies against those who continue to knowingly publish and/or circulate false and defamatory statements,” it concluded with.
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Ayushman Sharma is a sports enthusiast with a deep love for football, following the game closely since 2018. A hardcore supporter of NorthEast United FC and FC Barcelona, he has also gained valuable on-ground experience by volunteering during FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in Guwahati.