Indian football has been facing prolonged uncertainty following administrative and commercial challenges that disrupted the 2025–26 season of the Indian Super League (ISL). The situation escalated after several senior national team players released a video appeal urging FIFA and the Union government to intervene, citing serious sporting, economic and livelihood concerns.
Shame on us … this is what we have come to. pic.twitter.com/BS5NZIlFvf
In the video titled “Save Indian Football”, players including Sunil Chhetri, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Sandesh Jhingan said the ongoing crisis had left them facing uncertainty instead of preparing for competition. They described the situation as a humanitarian and professional emergency, alleging that the football administration was unable to fulfil its responsibilities.
The crisis stemmed from the expiration of the Master Rights Agreement between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) on December 8. With no renewal in place, the 2025–26 ISL season—originally scheduled to begin in September—was put on hold. The AIFF also failed to secure a new commercial partner after the agreement lapsed.
As a result, several ISL clubs suspended operations and halted salary payments to players and staff amid uncertainty over the league’s future. Clubs have also raised concerns about the financial viability of a shortened season.
In a significant development, the AIFF confirmed on Saturday that it will organise the 12th season of the Indian Super League. The federation said official dates for the 2025–26 season will be announced next week.
The announcement followed an Emergency Committee meeting that reviewed a report submitted by the AIFF–ISL Coordination Committee. The committee, formed on December 20 after the AIFF Executive Committee meeting and Annual General Meeting, was tasked with facilitating the resumption of the suspended season.
While the confirmation has brought temporary relief, questions remain over operational logistics and long-term stability, with observers noting that the challenges facing Indian football extend beyond the immediate season.
