Does the USD 50,000 Bonus Reveal AIFF's Lack of System?
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Synopsis
In a recent interview, Bhaichung Bhutia's critique of the AIFF's financial incentives highlights a deeper issue in Indian football management, calling for a need for systematic changes to improve the sport's future.
Key Takeaways
- Bhaichung Bhutia criticizes AIFF for lack of a structured approach.
- The proposal of a USD 50,000 bonus raises questions about financial management.
- Indian footballers rely on daily allowances rather than large contracts.
- The national team has faced a series of poor results following a promising year.
- Calls for leadership change within the AIFF are growing stronger.
New Delhi, June 11 (NationPress) Following India's 0-1 defeat against Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia voiced strong criticism of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for allegedly offering players a USD 50,000 bonus had they managed to secure a victory.
After a goalless draw with Bangladesh in their first match, India was in dire need of a win to keep their hopes alive. Unfortunately, their aspirations were thwarted by a late penalty, resulting in yet another unsatisfactory outcome.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, Bhutia urged AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey to resign “to save Indian football” and questioned the rationale behind such impulsive financial incentives.
“Reports indicate that players haven’t even received their daily allowance of RS 2,500. Indian footballers lack central contracts like their cricketing counterparts and earn modestly. Their income primarily comes from daily allowances,” Bhutia pointed out.
“Then out of the blue, there’s a USD 50,000 prize announcement for winning the match. What prompted this? If they had won, would the same bonus apply for the next four matches? There’s evidently no system, no strategy—just arbitrary decisions lacking clarity,” he stated.
In July 2023, India stood at 99th in the FIFA rankings and had a promising year, clinching the Intercontinental Cup, Tri-Nation Tournament, and SAFF Championship. However, Bhutia lamented that it has been “one disaster after another” since then.
After the tumultuous departure of former coach Igor Stimac and India’s exit from the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the team went winless throughout 2024. Their only recent victory came when veteran striker Sunil Chhetri emerged from retirement to lead the team to a 3-0 victory over the Maldives—India’s first win in 489 days.
As nations like Uzbekistan achieve their first World Cup qualification, India now risks missing the 2027 Asian Cup—a tournament they have consistently qualified for in recent years.
Reflecting on the overall situation, Bhutia was candid, stating, “It’s been a dreadful two and a half to three years under Kalyan Chaubey’s leadership. On-field performances have been subpar, and off-field management has been chaotic and fraught with controversies. It’s time for him to resign—for the benefit of Indian football.”
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the broader implications of Bhutia's statements. His critique of the AIFF reflects longstanding frustrations shared by many in the football community. The urgent call for structural reforms indicates that Indian football's future hinges on improved governance and accountability.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the context of Bhutia's criticism?
Bhaichung Bhutia criticized the AIFF after India's 0-1 loss to Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, questioning a sudden USD 50,000 bonus offered to players.
What does Bhutia say about player allowances?
Bhutia highlighted that players have not received their daily allowance of RS 2,500 and lack central contracts, making their earnings modest.
What has been the recent performance of the Indian football team?
The team has struggled, going winless throughout 2024 except for a recent victory against the Maldives after a long drought of 489 days.
What does Bhutia suggest about AIFF's management?
He suggests that the current management under Kalyan Chaubey is chaotic and calls for his resignation for the betterment of Indian football.
How has India's FIFA ranking changed recently?
India was ranked 99th in the FIFA rankings as of July 2023, but has faced significant challenges since.
