The dispute stems from a legal contention between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) regarding the Master Rights Agreement (MRA). Signed in 2010, the 15-year agreement granted FSDL the rights to manage, promote, and broadcast the ISL and India’s national football activities in exchange for an annual payment of âš50 crore to AIFF. The agreement has expired, and a renewal has yet to be formalized, prompting the Supreme Court to intervene and instruct AIFF not to enter into any new agreements with FSDL until the matter is resolved.
Veteran players have expressed their frustration publicly through a video shared on social media. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu said, “It’s January, and we should have been on your screens with ISL football matches right now.” Sandesh Jhingan added, “Instead of playing in ISL, players are going through an atmosphere of fear and disappointment.” Sunil Chhetri called for clarity, emphasizing that players, staff, and fans all have a right to know the future of Indian football in the country.
The ISL’s halt is unprecedented, affecting both domestic and foreign players who rely on the league for professional exposure and match practice. Clubs have also faced logistical and financial challenges, as planning for stadiums, training, and player contracts remains uncertain. The delay is particularly significant with the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaching, and players need regular competitive matches to maintain form.
Despite multiple hearings and court directives, AIFF and FSDL have yet to reach a resolution. Both parties had been asked by the Supreme Court on August 25, 2025, to resolve their differences, but no final agreement has emerged. This prolonged stalemate has prompted calls for external mediation, leading to the appeal to FIFA.
Analysts say that intervention by the global football governing body could help protect players’ interests, ensure continuity of the ISL, and stabilize the administration of football in India. Meanwhile, fans continue to wait for an official update on whether the league will kick off this season.
