The Asia/Oceania arm of global football players’ union FIFPRO on Tuesday expressed its concern for the ongoing impasse regarding the future of the Indian Supper League.
FIFPRO’s very public assertion comes close on the heels the warning issued recently by 11 of the 13 ISL clubs to the All India Football Federation, declaring they “face the real possibility of shutting down entirely” if the stalemate regarding the future of the country’s top-tier domestic competition is not resolved soon.
In its letter written to AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, the clubs had said that the crisis arising out of the non-renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the national federation and the ISL organisers FSDL has “paralysed professional football in India”.
It is worth noting here that the letter had referenced FIFPRO, stating: “FIFPRO, the global players’ union, has already apprised FIFA of the situation, increasing the likelihood of external scrutiny and possible sanctions (to the AIFF and by extension Indian football).”
The FIFPRO statement reads: “Asia/Oceania is deeply concerned by the escalating uncertainty in Indian professional football and calls for a swift resolution.
“The lack of clarity for players over the 2025/26 Indian Super League (ISL) season, arising from a dispute over the league’s organisation and governance that has led to its indefinite suspension, is having a significant impact on their livelihoods, careers, and wellbeing.
“Players have been subjected to unilateral and unlawful suspensions of their employment contracts until further notice. These actions represent a direct breach of the players’ labour rights and are causing significant distress.
“The Football Players Association of India (FPAI) and FIFPRO have been in constant contact with players across the ISL and have raised the matter with FIFA and the AFC on their behalf.
“FIFPRO Asia/Oceania urges the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) and club owners to work collaboratively with the FPAI to:
*Confirm the ISL season schedule and establish a clear road map for the season to commence; and
*Ensure clubs continue to meet all contractual obligations to players.
“The players, FPAI and FIFPRO remain committed to the full development of Indian football.”
In a related development, the Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing on Friday, August 22, for its next hearing on the matter of the governance (as seen from this perch, its more of mis-governance) of Indian football.
