The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is navigating a period of uncertainty as it awaits a crucial Supreme Court verdict on its constitution. This legal ambiguity has significantly impacted the scheduling and planning of the upcoming football season, leading to a notable decision to hold the Super Cup before the Indian Super League (ISL).
In a recent high-level meeting on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the AIFF engaged with representatives from all 13 ISL clubs and its commercial partner, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), to chart a course for the 2025-26 season. The meeting saw participation from key AIFF figures, including President Kalyan Chaubey, Vice-President N.A. Haris, Treasurer Kipa Ajay, and others. Notably, eleven clubs sent officials to Delhi, while Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Odisha FC participated virtually, showcasing a united front.
A key outcome of the meeting was the consensus to prioritize the Super Cup ahead of the ISL, a departure from the usual schedule. However, the clubs voiced their need for clarity and legal assurances regarding the top-tier league structure before fully committing to the Super Cup. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey emphasized the importance of proceeding despite the challenges, stating, "The main purpose of the meeting was to discuss how clubs can plan their year. Whatever the situation, the game must go on".
The legal uncertainties stem from the expiration of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with FSDL in December and the Supreme Court's suspension of further negotiations until it rules on the AIFF constitution. This has disrupted the primary revenue stream for clubs, leading some, including Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, and Odisha FC, to temporarily suspend operations.
In response to the legal roadblock, the AIFF has committed to seeking legal advice to explore interim solutions. Questions have been raised about the delay in seeking urgent relief from the Supreme Court regarding the league's status. Chaubey indicated the possibility of rescheduling the Super Cup to precede the season, citing the need for 6-8 weeks of preparation for clubs, some of which have not yet begun their pre-season training. Another meeting is planned within the next 7-10 days to finalize the Super Cup's dates, format, and structure.
The Super Cup, introduced in 2018 as a replacement for the Federation Cup, has typically been held in Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium, with the 2023 edition being an exception held in Kerala. FC Goa won the most recent edition, defeating Jamshedpur FC in the final. This year's Super Cup winners will earn a spot in the AFC Champions League Two preliminary round. The AIFF has also confirmed the national team's participation in the upcoming CAFA Championship and matches in Singapore, urging clubs to align their schedules to support national team commitments.
The AIFF President anticipates the Super Cup to take place in the second or third week of September and has said that the tournament format might also be modified. The winner of the Super Cup 2025 will qualify for the 2025-26 AFC Champions League Two Preliminary Round.
Amidst these challenges, the AIFF has affirmed that the ISL will proceed this year. However, it has clarified that it will not interfere in the internal affairs of clubs, including player and staff payments.
The situation has also affected match officials, with nine referees, including FIFA referees and assistant referees, informing the AIFF that the uncertainty could force them to seek alternative employment. These officials, contracted with the AIFF on a full-time basis, have requested an extension of their contracts to ensure their continued contribution to Indian football.
