ISL: AIFF to bring plight of clubs, players to SC's attention in Monday hearing

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) will raise the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) crisis before the Supreme Court when it convenes on Monday, amid growing concern for players, clubs and staff affected by the impasse. The apex court, which has reserved its verdict on the draft AIFF constitution, will hear the matter that day. The deadlock arises from the pending renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) and the AIFF, forcing ISL organisers to place the 2025-26 season “on hold” since July 11. Several clubs have since halted operations or stopped paying salaries to players and support staff.

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“A discussion was held between the legal representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs, on Thursday, August 14, 2025,” the AIFF said in a statement on X. “It has been agreed by all parties that the concerns of the ISL clubs… and the hardship being felt by the players and other stakeholders will be conveyed to the Hon’ble Supreme Court next week, for its kind consideration.

” An AIFF source told PTI that they were ready to file a written application if the judges sought one. “Yes, we will be attempting to mention but since judgement is reserved we have to see how the judges take it. If they feel there is merit… they may ask for an application to be filed. The plight of the players, clubs and football need to be brought to their notice,” a club representative told PTI.

The move follows a joint appeal last week by all 11 ISL clubs urging the AIFF to present the situation in front of the court, stating that they would take legal action on their own if no steps were taken. Earlier, the AIFF had proposed holding the Super Cup in September to provide competitive matches in the absence of the league.