AIFF Proposes To Own And Operate ISL For The Next 20 Seasons

Big changes might be coming to the world of Indian football. In a move that could reshape the sport in the country, the All India Football Federation has officially proposed that the Indian Super League be owned and operated by the federation itself for the next 20 seasons. This proposal marks a significant pivot from the current structure where Football Sports Development Limited, a subsidiary of Reliance, holds the marketing and commercial rights. The AIFF Proposes ISL management shift as part of a broader strategy to streamline how the top tier of Indian football is governed and developed over the long term.

Understanding The Details Of The AIFF Proposes ISL Plan

The core of this new vision was discussed during a recent executive committee meeting where the federation outlined its desire for more direct involvement. Under the current agreement, which was signed back in 2010, FSDL has played a massive role in the commercial success of the league. However, the AIFF Proposes ISL ownership transition to ensure that the national governing body has the final say in the league operations starting from the 2025 2026 season. This proposal covers a massive 20 year window, suggesting that the federation is looking for decades of stability and direct control over the commercial and sporting aspects of the competition.

Why The AIFF Proposes ISL Ownership Is Significant

If this proposal goes through, it would mean a total overhaul of the current Master Rights Agreement. For years, the relationship between the federation and its commercial partners has been the backbone of the league, but the AIFF Proposes ISL control to bring the tournament closer to the global model where national associations run their primary leagues. This transition would involve the AIFF taking over the marketing, broadcasting, and sponsorship rights that are currently managed by FSDL. By seeking to own and operate the league for the next 20 seasons, the federation hopes to integrate the ISL more closely with the overall growth of the Indian national team and grassroots football.

Official Statements Regarding The AIFF Proposes ISL Move

The federation has been transparent about its intent to take the reigns. In a formal statement regarding the meeting outcomes, it was noted that the AIFF Proposes ISL as a federation led property to maximize its potential. The official statement from the federation mentioned, "The AIFF has proposed to the FSDL that the ISL should be owned and operated by the AIFF for the next 20 seasons, starting from 2025-26." This quote highlights the direct nature of the request and the clear timeline they have in mind. It remains to be seen how the current stakeholders will react to this 20 year management proposal, but the intent from the federation’s side is clearly established.

What This Means For The Future Of Indian Football

While the proposal is currently on the table, it signals a bold new chapter for the sport. The AIFF Proposes ISL ownership not just as a financial move, but as a way to consolidate power within the national body. If the federation manages to take control for the next 20 seasons, they will be responsible for everything from scheduling to club licensing and international player regulations. This move is intended to create a more unified structure for Indian football, potentially bridging the gap between the ISL and the I League. As the AIFF Proposes ISL as a self governed entity, fans and stakeholders are waiting to see if this will lead to better infrastructure and more international success for India.

Next Steps In The AIFF Proposes ISL Transition

The coming months will be crucial as negotiations between the federation and FSDL continue. Since the AIFF Proposes ISL control for such a lengthy duration, there are many legal and commercial hurdles to clear before any final signatures are made. The current Master Rights Agreement is a complex document, and any changes will require a consensus among all major partners. However, the fact that the AIFF Proposes ISL management so publicly shows that they are ready to step up and lead. Football fans across the country will be keeping a close eye on these developments to see if the Indian Super League will truly become a federation run tournament in the near future.