No Relegation in ISL 2024-25 as AIFF Delays Implementation by Another Season: Report

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The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has reportedly decided to postpone the implementation of relegation in the Indian Super League (ISL) for another season.

This decision came during the AIFF's executive committee meeting and marks a significant deviation from the Asian Football Confederation's (AFC) roadmap, which had initially slated relegation to start from the 2024-25 season.

This move to delay relegation is likely to stir controversy, particularly among I-League clubs who have been advocating for a merit-based promotion and relegation system. The I-League clubs had previously threatened to take legal action against the AIFF if relegation was not implemented as per the AFC's roadmap. The AIFF's decision could reignite these tensions and lead to further disputes within the Indian football community.

Promotion to the ISL began in the 2023-24 season with Punjab FC becoming the first I-League champions to enter the top-flight. Mohammedan Sporting is expected to move up in the upcoming season, provided they fulfill all licensing criteria. However, the postponement of relegation means that teams in the ISL will not face the threat of dropping down to the I-League, at least for the next season.

The decision to delay relegation was influenced by several factors, including financial stability and the overall growth of the league. The AIFF believes that postponing relegation will provide existing ISL teams with more security, allowing them to focus on building competitive squads without the immediate pressure of relegation. This, in turn, is expected to enhance the quality of football in the league and attract more investments.

Despite the delay in the ISL, relegation will take place in the I-League. TRAU FC and Neroca FC will be relegated, despite appeals from Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh to exempt them due to the ongoing ethnic unrest in the state. This decision underscores the AIFF's commitment to maintaining a competitive structure in the I-League, even as it delays similar measures in the ISL.

In addition to the relegation decision, the AIFF executive committee appointed Anil Kumar from the Kerala Football Association as the full-time secretary general. Acting secretary M Satyanarayan will continue in his role as assistant.

As Indian football continues to evolve, the AIFF's decisions on league structures and management will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the sport in the country. The postponement of relegation in the ISL is a strategic move aimed at stabilizing the league, but it remains to be seen how it will be received by the wider football community.