Will the Deadlock on ISL Scheduling Finally Be Resolved?
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Synopsis
As the Indian Super League faces uncertainty over its future, Shaji Prabhakaran shares hope for a resolution during the upcoming AIFF meeting with club CEOs. The implications for the future of football in India are significant, making this a crucial moment for the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Shaji Prabhakaran expresses optimism for a resolution.
- The ongoing deadlock affects the ISL's scheduling.
- Many ISL clubs have suspended operations due to uncertainty.
- Eight clubs have reached out to the AIFF for dialogue.
- The current MRA is set to expire on December 18.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (NationPress) Former AIFF general secretary Shaji Prabhakaran is optimistic that the prevailing deadlock regarding the scheduling of the 2025–26 Indian Super League (ISL) season will likely find a resolution after the meeting set for Thursday between the national federation and ISL club CEOs.
As uncertainty looms over the future of India's premier football league, several ISL clubs have halted their first-team activities indefinitely.
"We can expect the conclusion of this deadlock as the authorities are convening with the clubs today, and a solution may emerge for the betterment of football in India," Prabhakaran expressed on X.
"This ambiguity needs to be resolved promptly, and ideally, it should have been addressed much earlier," he added.
The ISL's organizers, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), have paused the league due to the unresolved status of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with the AIFF. The existing 15-year MRA, established in 2010, is set to expire on December 18.
In light of the increasing uncertainty, eight ISL clubs have reached out to the AIFF, expressing their concerns regarding their future. The letter, which called for the AIFF to engage in "constructive dialogue", was signed by Bengaluru FC, Jamshedpur FC, FC Goa, Hyderabad FC, Kerala Blasters, NorthEast United FC, Odisha FC, and Punjab FC.
However, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal, Mohammedan Sporting, Mumbai City FC, and Chennaiyin FC did not endorse the letter.
Last month, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey affirmed that the 2025–26 ISL season would proceed, although he did not specify a start date.
On July 11, FSDL officially declared that the 2025–26 ISL season had been “put on hold” due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the MRA renewal. Traditionally, the ISL season takes place from September to April.
The Supreme Court has instructed the AIFF not to engage in new negotiations on the MRA until a final decision is reached in the ongoing AIFF draft constitution case, with a ruling anticipated soon.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the importance of communication and resolution in the world of sports. The ongoing deadlock could have lasting impacts on Indian football, and it’s crucial for the AIFF and club representatives to engage in constructive dialogue that prioritizes the sport's future.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the ISL?
The Indian Super League is currently on hold due to unresolved issues regarding the Master Rights Agreement with the AIFF.
What is the significance of the AIFF meeting with club CEOs?
The meeting is expected to address the deadlock affecting ISL scheduling and could lead to a resolution beneficial for the future of Indian football.
Which clubs have expressed concerns to the AIFF?
Eight ISL clubs, including Bengaluru FC and FC Goa, have voiced their concerns in a letter to the AIFF urging for constructive dialogue.
When is the current Master Rights Agreement set to expire?
The current Master Rights Agreement between FSDL and AIFF is set to expire on December 18.
