Budget shock for ISL clubs as AIFF’s centralised plan risks blowing past ₹60 crore

ISL clubs were taken aback after learning they might have to contribute around ₹2.5 crore each.

Indian Football finds itself under renewed strain as Indian Super League (ISL) clubs react with concern to spiralling costs for the 2025–26 season. During a virtual meeting on Tuesday, the All India Football Federation revealed that the estimated cost of hosting the Goa leg alone stands at ₹42 crore. That figure includes production and transmission expenses.

However, the disclosure immediately triggered anxiety. After all, discussions on the Kolkata leg are still pending. As a result, several clubs believe the combined bill could touch ₹60 crore. That projection clearly almost exhausts AIFF’s stated first-year budget of ₹70 crore under its proposed 20-year model.

“If the Goa leg costs ₹42 crore, Kolkata is likely to be similar. Even if the Goa estimates are brought down, adding the Kolkata leg would still push the total projected cost beyond ₹60 crore under the current plan for this season. To compare, the operational budget for a normal season, as outlined in AIFF’s long-term plan, is kept at ₹70 crore,” a source close to the development told Khel Now.

Naturally, the numbers caught many stakeholders off guard. Moreover, the absence of a commercial partner has only amplified the unease. Consequently, ISL clubs are now questioning both feasibility and financial accountability.

Centralised model raises fresh financial alarms

The federation has already confirmed that the league will not follow a home-and-away format. Instead, the season will be staged across two or three centralised venues. This decision was taken because stadiums have remained unused for months. ISL clubs also lack time to prepare venues at short notice.

Yet, while the logic is practical, the cost is proving prohibitive. According to club estimates shared earlier, organising the league should require ₹35–40 crore. Therefore, a potential ₹80 crore outlay feels excessive to many.

Additionally, ISL clubs were told they may need to contribute around ₹2.5 crore each. That suggestion has not gone down well. Owners are already under pressure to cut spending. Hence, any increased risk of withdrawals.

Notably, Jamshedpur FC remain the only club to confirm participation regardless of format. In contrast, Odisha FC have warned it may opt out if asked to bear costs without a commercial partner. This stance was reiterated in Sunday’s earlier online meeting.

Also Read: AIFF relays 20-year structure plan for organising Indian Super League

AFC uncertainty deepens the dilemma

Beyond finances, regulatory clarity remains elusive. The Asian Football Confederation has not issued any directive yet. Therefore, the final format depends entirely on its response, expected within 48 hours.

This uncertainty matters because AFC rules require at least 24 matches per club. They also mandate an eight-month season and a home-and-away league. None of these conditions are realistically achievable before the May 31 deadline.

Under the proposed conference-based model, teams would play just 15 matches. That shortfall could jeopardise India’s continental slots. Consequently, clubs have urged AIFF to seek a one-time exemption.

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