The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is reeling after the Indian Super League (ISL) tender closed on November 7, 2025, without a single bid. This unprecedented situation has thrown the financial future of the league into serious doubt and raised significant questions about the AIFF's credibility and the overall stability of Indian football.
The tender, which was launched on October 16, 2025, sought a commercial partner to manage the ISL's key commercial rights, including broadcasting, sponsorship, digital, and merchandising operations for a 15-year period. Despite initial interest from four parties – Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), FanCode (Dream Sports), Conscient Heritage Group, and a foreign consortium – none proceeded to submit a formal bid.
Several factors contributed to this outcome. One potential bidder was disqualified due to a conflict of interest. The remaining parties reportedly had reservations about the financial structure of the tender and a perceived lack of clarity regarding long-term planning and league operations. Industry experts suggest that the financial conditions outlined in the Request for Proposal (RFP) proved to be a major deterrent. The AIFF had set a base requirement of ₹37.5 crore per year or 5% of the gross revenue, whichever was higher, for the 15-year agreement. Many considered this figure unrealistic given the current commercial landscape surrounding Indian football.
The absence of a successful bidder leaves the ISL in a precarious position. The AIFF was relying on this commercial partnership to fund crucial aspects of Indian football, including youth development programs, national team activities, and the day-to-day operations of the league. Without a commercial partner to shoulder operational costs, the league faces a period of significant financial uncertainty.
The timing of this setback is particularly challenging for Indian football. The national team's recent early exit from the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, along with pending schedules for the I-League and Indian Women's League, highlight the fragility of the current football ecosystem. The over-reliance on a few private stakeholders further exacerbates the situation.
The AIFF now faces the daunting task of revisiting its tender structure and financial expectations. It remains unclear what steps the federation's bid evaluation committee, led by Justice L. Nageswara Rao, will take to address this predicament. Some insiders suggest that the AIFF may need to seek legal counsel to navigate this complex situation.
The failure of the ISL tender raises serious questions about the leadership and direction of the AIFF. Some critics are calling for greater transparency and accountability within the federation. The situation underscores the urgent need for a sustainable commercial framework that can support the growth and development of Indian football at all levels. In the short term, the future of the ISL remains uncertain. The AIFF must act quickly to address the concerns of potential investors and restore confidence in the league's long-term viability. The financial stability of Indian football hinges on the federation's ability to navigate this crisis effectively.
