Amid continuing uncertainty over the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) season, clubs have reportedly stepped up their efforts to acquire the commercial rights of the country’s premier football competition.
According to sources, ISL clubs have proposed a two-season arrangement under which they would operate the league while guaranteeing a payment of Rs 15 crore per season to the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The offer is understood to be Rs 2 crore higher than the amount currently available to the federation.
The proposal comes at a time when Indian football continues to grapple with uncertainty over the league calendar and the absence of clarity regarding the new season. More than 150 ISL players are currently out of contract, including several members of the Indian national team.
Under normal circumstances, clubs would have already initiated contract renewal discussions with players. However, with no confirmed roadmap for the upcoming season, most clubs have been reluctant to begin negotiations. The uncertainty is also affecting coaching staff and support personnel.
One notable casualty has been Oscar Bruzon, who parted ways with East Bengal after guiding the club to its first national league title in 22 years. Sources indicate that the ongoing uncertainty over the future season made long-term planning and contract discussions increasingly difficult.
The situation has also raised concerns for clubs set to represent India in continental competitions. FC Goa and East Bengal, both of whom have secured spots in AFC competitions, are yet to begin preparations for their respective campaigns due to the lack of clarity surrounding the domestic calendar.
The AIFF had received a bid worth Rs 2,129 crore from Genius Sports for the ISL’s commercial rights for the next 15 to 20 years. However, the proposal could not be approved at the Special General Meeting held in Kolkata on May 23, as several clubs sought greater clarity on the revenue-sharing model associated with the deal
In a separate communication sent to the AIFF last month, clubs proposed a club-led model for the ISL, with Genius Sports entering the ecosystem as the league’s data partner.
Sources further indicate that all ISL clubs except East Bengal have backed the latest proposal to acquire the league’s commercial rights for the next two seasons. East Bengal was reportedly approached by the other clubs regarding the proposal but is yet to communicate its position.
The AIFF is yet to formally respond to the clubs’ latest offer. Sources also suggest that clubs have not been informed about the date of the next meeting with the federation, where the roadmap for the upcoming season is expected to be discussed.
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