Has Odisha FC Really Suspended Operations?
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Synopsis
Odisha FC has announced the suspension of its operations amidst uncertainty surrounding the upcoming Indian Super League season. However, their women's team continues preparations for the Indian Women’s League. Owner Rohan Sharma reveals the challenges faced while holding on to hope for a resolution. Can the future of Indian football be salvaged?
Key Takeaways
- Odisha FC has not shut down completely; operations are suspended.
- The women’s team is still active and preparing for their league.
- Challenges include lack of clarity and sponsorships.
- FSDL has paused the ISL 2025-26 season due to contractual disputes.
- Owner Rohan Sharma emphasizes the need for swift resolutions.
New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) Odisha FC has temporarily ceased operations due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Indian Super League 2025/26 season. Club owner Rohan Sharma took to social media to clarify that while rumors indicate the club has closed down, that is not entirely accurate.
The women's team of Odisha FC will maintain their pre-season preparations for the upcoming season, as the Indian Women’s League 2025-26 season is scheduled to commence in September. Sharma expressed hope that as more clubs face operational suspensions, a resolution for the future will be reached more swiftly.
“We haven't shut down the club despite the headlines. Key staff members are retained, and our women's team will be operational. However, it becomes increasingly challenging to justify to my stakeholders investing large sums without tangible results and no clear outlook,” he stated.
“We face - No Clarity on when the League will commence - No facilities for practice/play/work in Odisha - No sponsorship opportunities due to the absence of a season - No engagement with investors due to an expiring participation agreement. We hoped for progress, but unfortunately, it hasn’t materialized,” Sharma shared in a thread on ‘X’.
In a letter sent to participating clubs, which IANS has obtained, FSDL announced that it is compelled to pause the ISL 2025-26 due to its inability to effectively plan, organize, or commercialize the season, citing that no agreement has been finalized regarding the Master Rights Agreement (MRA), which is set to expire on December 8, 2025, with the AIFF.
In December 2010, IMG Reliance, a joint venture between IMG Worldwide and Reliance Industries, acquired all commercial rights to football in India from the AIFF for 15 years.
According to the agreement, the AIFF granted IMG Reliance the rights to leverage the commercial value of the sport to enhance, popularize, and promote football across India, from grassroots to professional levels.
Point of View
It’s crucial to understand that while Odisha FC faces operational challenges, the commitment to the women's team highlights the importance of fostering growth in Indian football. The situation underscores the need for timely resolutions to ensure the league can thrive.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Odisha FC suspended operations?
Odisha FC has suspended operations due to uncertainties regarding the future of the Indian Super League 2025/26 season.
Is the women's team still operational?
Yes, the women's team of Odisha FC will continue their pre-season preparations for the Indian Women’s League 2025-26.
What challenges does Odisha FC face?
The club faces challenges such as lack of clarity on league start dates, no practice facilities, and difficulties in securing sponsorship.
What is the situation with the Master Rights Agreement?
The ISL 2025-26 has been put on hold due to the failure to reach an agreement on the Master Rights Agreement with the AIFF.
Who owns Odisha FC?
Odisha FC is owned by Rohan Sharma.
