Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is scheduled to meet with key stakeholders of Indian football on December 3rd to address the ongoing crisis surrounding the sport in the nation. The meeting aims to find a resolution to the operational and commercial deadlock that currently plagues Indian domestic football.

The discussions will involve representatives from the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Indian Super League (ISL) clubs, I-League teams, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), broadcasters, potential commercial partners, and other entities linked to league operations. KPMG India Services LLP, the transaction advisor, has also been asked to attend the meetings to provide necessary clarifications on financial and structural matters.

The urgency of the meeting stems from the AIFF's failure to secure a new commercial partner for its domestic leagues, including the top-tier Indian Super League (ISL). This follows uncertainty over the renewal of the 15-year Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with FSDL, which is set to expire on December 8th. FSDL had earlier informed the AIFF in July that it was placing the ISL on hold due to the lack of clarity, creating scheduling, planning, and commercial challenges across the football pyramid.

The Sports Ministry's intervention comes after a directive from the Supreme Court, which has urged the ministry to mediate and help stakeholders find a workable solution. The Supreme Court has taken note of critical points raised by Justice (Retd.) L. Nageswara Rao, who drafted the new AIFF constitution, and seeks government assistance to ensure a solution aligned with FIFA statutes and global best practices.

The meetings are scheduled to take place at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) headquarters in New Delhi. Six separate meetings are planned throughout the day, including discussions with ISL clubs, I-League and lower division clubs, FSDL, prospective commercial partners, and broadcasters or OTT platforms. The day will conclude with a joint conference involving all stakeholders. The schedule includes:

• 1:30 PM – ISL Clubs: League readiness and commercial model
• 2:15 PM – I-League & lower division clubs: Pyramid stability and disputes
• 3:00 PM – FSDL: Transition and past learnings
• 3:30 PM – Prospective commercial partners: RFP concerns and re-tender interest
• 4:00 PM – Broadcasters and OTT platforms: Broadcast viability and RFP issues
• 4:30 PM – Joint meeting with all stakeholders

The ministry has stressed the importance of participation from all relevant stakeholders to ensure effective deliberations. The Sports Minister previously met with I-League representatives and urged "constructive dialogue" to find a resolution.

The outcome of these meetings is crucial, as the 2025–26 season of men's domestic football faces uncertainty. Several top-flight clubs, including reigning ISL champion Mohun Bagan Super Giant, have reportedly suspended first-team operations. The Supreme Court has expressed concern over the failed commercial tender and the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming ISL season. The court has urged all parties to find a practical solution. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the Court that the government is ready to intervene and support the process while respecting FIFA regulations.