The Supreme Court of India has intervened in the ongoing situation surrounding the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and its search for a new commercial partner. In a recent directive, the apex court appointed Justice L. Nageswara Rao, a former Supreme Court judge, to oversee the tender process for selecting a new commercial partner for the AIFF. This decision comes amidst uncertainty and delays affecting the Indian Super League (ISL) and Indian football in general.
The need for a new commercial partner arose after Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the AIFF's existing commercial partner, placed the 2025-26 season "on hold" due to a disagreement over the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA). The MRA, initially signed in 2010, is set to expire in December 2025. The current impasse between the AIFF and FSDL prompted the Supreme Court to step in to ensure a smooth and transparent transition to a new commercial partnership.
The Supreme Court has mandated that the AIFF conduct an open tender process to identify a suitable commercial partner. To ensure neutrality and transparency, Justice L. Nageswara Rao will supervise the entire process. The court has also granted Justice Rao the authority to appoint one or two professionals to assist him in finalizing the selection. The selection process must align with global best practices and adhere to the National Sports Development Code 2011, the National Sports Governance Act 2025, the AIFF Constitution, and regulations set by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). The Supreme Court has set a deadline of October 15 for completing the tender process.
The decision to appoint Justice Rao highlights the Supreme Court's commitment to resolving the issues facing Indian football and ensuring the timely commencement of the football calendar. The uncertainty surrounding the ISL had led to financial difficulties for some clubs, with at least three reportedly pausing operations or suspending salaries. The Supreme Court's intervention aims to provide stability and confidence to all stakeholders, including clubs, broadcasters, sponsors, and fans.
FSDL has agreed to waive its "contractual Right of First Negotiation and Right to Match under the MRA" and issue a No Objection Certificate to AIFF for conducting an open tender. This paves the way for other potential sponsors to bid for the opportunity to become the AIFF's commercial partner for running the ISL.
The AIFF and FSDL jointly submitted a proposal to the Supreme Court suggesting that the 2025-26 season commence in December with the Super Cup. This proposal indicates a willingness from both parties to cooperate in ensuring the continuity of Indian football. The Supreme Court has directed the AIFF to stick to the football calendar.
The Supreme Court's decision marks a crucial step towards resolving the current crisis in Indian football. By appointing Justice L. Nageswara Rao to oversee the tender process, the court seeks to ensure a fair, transparent, and efficient selection of a new commercial partner for the AIFF, paving the way for a stable and vibrant future for the sport in the country.
