Real Kashmir set to withdraw from AIFF Super Cup citing uncertainty over I-League start

The Snow Leopard were in Group A of AIFF Super Cup alongside Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, and Chennaiyin FC.

Real Kashmir FC are set to withdraw from the upcoming AIFF Super Cup 2025-26, which is scheduled to begin on October 25 in Goa.

The Srinagar-based side had been placed in what many dubbed the “Group of Death”, alongside Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, and Chennaiyin FC. According to sources close to the club, the decision to pull out was driven by financial and logistical concerns.

“Real Kashmir have decided to withdraw from the Super Cup. Since there is no clarity on when the I-League will start, the management feels it isn’t cost-effective to bring players to Goa just for three to five matches,” a source told Khel Now exclusively.

The Snow Leopards were originally scheduled to play East Bengal in the Super Cup opener on October 25, followed by matches against Mohun Bagan SG on October 28 and Chennaiyin FC on October 31. Their withdrawal now leaves a vacant spot in Group A, with the AIFF expected to make an official announcement soon.

AIFF to retain six foreign player rule for Super Cup

Meanwhile, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has decided not to alter its existing regulations regarding foreign player participation. Clubs will continue to be allowed to register up to six foreign players and can start all six in the playing XI.

Although Mohun Bagan and Bengaluru FC had reportedly requested a reduction to four foreign starters, the League Committee unanimously advised against any changes.

“We may not change the existing rule,” said Chairman Lalnghinglova Hmar, stressing that modifications should only follow proper evaluation.

Officials also noted that maintaining the six-foreigner policy benefits clubs eyeing continental qualification, as AFC competitions do not impose such restrictions.

Also Read: Super Cup 2025-26 fixtures revealed; Kolkata Derby in October headlines group stage

AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 groups

Group A: Mohun Bagan SG, East Bengal FC, Chennaiyin FC, Real Kashmir FCGroup B: FC Goa, Jamshedpur FC, NorthEast United FC, Inter Kashi FCGroup C: Bengaluru FC, Mohammedan SC, Punjab FC, Gokulam Kerala FCGroup D: Mumbai City FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Hyderabad FC, Rajasthan United FC

Only the group winners will advance to the semi-finals, with the eventual champion earning a playoff berth in the 2026–27 AFC Champions League Two.

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