Kerala Blasters, Bengaluru FC, along with Several ISL Clubs, Issue Strong Warning to AIFF Over Future Uncertainty

In a significant development for Indian football, Kerala Blasters FC, along with several other Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have issued a strongly-worded joint statement to the All India Football Federation (AIFF), cautioning that continued uncertainty could force them to review their commitment to the league beyond the current season.

The statement comes just hours after the conclusion of the shortened 2025-26 ISL season and ahead of the AIFF’s crucial Special General Body Meeting.

“With deep concern and disappointment, the clubs of the Indian Super League wish to state that, given the continued uncertainty surrounding professional football in India, we are now compelled to review the extent of our commitment to the league beyond the current season,” the joint statement read.

The clubs highlighted their consistent investment in Indian football despite challenging circumstances but pointed out the lack of “structural clarity, commercial clarity, and long-term visibility” as major hurdles. They emphasised the need for a financially sustainable league structure and urged the AIFF to seriously evaluate their proposed alternative commercial model alongside other proposals.

“At the heart of Indian football’s future must be a financially sustainable league. The clubs have proposed an alternative model which we believe is credible, constructive and worthy of being evaluated on merit,” the statement added.

The backdrop to this escalation is the expiry of the Master Rights Agreement with FSDL, leading to prolonged uncertainty that forced the 2025-26 season into a curtailed 13-match format. Clubs have been pushing for greater control over commercial rights and a more collaborative framework with the AIFF.

The statement is a joint one, and these clubs have posted it on their official handles. Along with KBFC, Mumbai City FC, Bengaluru FC, Inter Kashi, and Sporting Club Delhi are the primary clubs that have publicly shared it. FC Goa have also shared the same sentiment on social media.

This joint statement by the clubs, including fan-favourite Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City FC and others, signals growing frustration among ISL stakeholders and increases pressure on the AIFF to resolve the impasse quickly for the stability of Indian club football.

East Bengal became the reigning champions of the Indian Super League this season. The Torch Bearers finished on the same points as arch-rivals Mohun Bagan, but were crowned champions for a superior goal difference.