Did Punjab FC Secure a Direct ‘Premier 1’ License Without Sanctions for the 2025-26 Season?
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Synopsis
Punjab FC has achieved a remarkable feat by securing a direct ‘Premier 1’ license for the 2025-26 season, becoming the only club in India to do so without any sanctions. This milestone showcases the club's commitment to excellence and sets a new standard in Indian football.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab FC is the only club to receive a ‘Premier 1’ license without sanctions for the 2025-26 season.
- The license reflects the club's commitment to excellence and integrity in management.
- Other clubs received licenses with sanctions due to minor issues.
- The AIFF's licensing system is crucial for maintaining the quality of football in India.
- Clubs can appeal rejected license applications.
Mohali, May 16 (NationPress) Punjab FC has officially been granted a ‘Premier 1’ Club Licence for the upcoming 2025-26 season by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), marking a significant achievement as the sole club in India to receive this honor without facing any sanctions.
This decision was reached by the AIFF's Club Licensing Committee following a thorough evaluation process. The committee meticulously assessed extensive reports and documents before making their final decision, having reviewed applications from 15 clubs in total. Notably, Punjab FC stands out as the only club to have secured the ‘Premier 1’ Licence without sanctions for the preceding 2024-25 season.
In contrast, other prominent clubs such as Mohun Bagan Super Giant FC, East Bengal, FC Goa, Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, Jamshedpur FC, and Mumbai City FC have been issued licenses accompanied by sanctions due to minor non-compliance with B criteria.
“This is a moment of immense pride for all of us at Punjab FC. This acknowledgment reflects our unwavering commitment to operational excellence, transparency, and maintaining the highest standards in club management. From our youth development initiatives to first-team operations, we have consistently aimed to establish benchmarks for professionalism and integrity. This validation not only affirms our endeavors but also inspires us to elevate the standards of Punjab FC and Indian football as a whole,” stated Nikolaos Topoliatis, the technical director of Punjab FC.
In the previous season, Punjab FC finished tenth in the Indian Super League with 28 points and reached the quarterfinals of the Kalinga Super Cup. The club's youth teams have showcased their prowess in youth football, triumphing in the recently concluded AIFF U-17 Elite Youth League by defeating Jamshedpur FC convincingly.
Moreover, they successfully defended their title in the Dream Sports Championships, overcoming Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The U-15 Sub Junior squad is currently leading their group in the final stages of the AIFF Sub Junior League.
On the other hand, I League champions Churchill Brothers FC Goa, along with Hyderabad FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Odisha FC, NorthEast United FC, Mohammedan Sporting Club, and Inter Kashi, did not receive the license.
The AIFF has stated that clubs whose applications were denied have the right to either appeal the decision or seek an exemption to participate in National Club Competitions, in accordance with the applicable licensing regulations.
The Indian Club Licensing system plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality, professionalism, and infrastructure of football clubs in India. This annual process allows clubs to obtain the necessary licenses to compete in AFC and National club competitions for each season. The licenses are categorized into ‘Premier 1’ for Indian Super League clubs and ‘Premier 2’ for I-League clubs.
AIFF Club licensing results for the 2025-26 season -
License Granted without sanctions: Punjab FC
License Granted with sanctions: Mumbai City FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Bengaluru FC, Jamshedpur FC, FC Goa, Chennaiyin FC, and East Bengal FC.
License rejected: Hyderabad FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Odisha FC, NorthEast United FC, Mohammedan Sporting Club, Churchill Brothers FC Goa, and Inter Kashi.
Point of View
The achievement of Punjab FC in securing a direct ‘Premier 1’ license without sanctions is a significant milestone for Indian football. It underscores the importance of operational integrity and sets a standard for other clubs to aspire to. Such accomplishments contribute positively to the overall reputation and development of football in India, showcasing the potential for growth and professionalism in the sport.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the ‘Premier 1’ license signify?
The ‘Premier 1’ license signifies that a club meets the highest standards of operational excellence as required by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for participation in top-tier competitions.
How many clubs received licenses without sanctions?
Only Punjab FC received a ‘Premier 1’ license without any sanctions for the 2025-26 season.
What is the significance of AIFF's licensing process?
The AIFF's licensing process ensures that football clubs in India maintain quality, professionalism, and proper infrastructure, which is vital for the growth of the sport.
Can clubs appeal if their license application is rejected?
Yes, clubs whose applications are rejected have the right to appeal the decision or request an exemption to participate in National Club Competitions.
What other clubs received licenses with sanctions?
Clubs like Mumbai City FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and others received licenses but with sanctions due to minor non-compliance issues.
