Visa Woes Galore! Real Kashmir Forced To Withdraw From AIFF Super Cup

Last Updated:October 16, 2025, 17:33 IST

Real Kashmir FC withdraws from AIFF Super Cup 2025 due to visa delays for foreign players; Dempo SC replaces them in the Goa tournament.

Real Kashmir FC (X)

In a disappointing turn of events, Real Kashmir FC have officially withdrawn from the upcoming AIFF Super Cup 2025, citing visa delays for their foreign players as the reason.

The Srinagar-based club, popularly known as the Snow Leopards, announced the decision on Thursday, just a week before the tournament’s kickoff in Goa on October 25.

‘A Decision Beyond Our Control, But Made with Integrity’

In a statement shared on social media, Real Kashmir said, “Due to unavoidable circumstances, Real Kashmir FC has withdrawn from the AIFF Super Cup 2025. Visa delays for our foreign players made it impossible to compete at full strength — a decision beyond our control, but one made with integrity."

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed the development shortly after, adding that Dempo SC will replace Real Kashmir in the 16-team tournament.

“Real Kashmir FC have withdrawn from AIFF Super Cup 2025–26, as VISAS for their foreign players could not be secured. They will be replaced by Dempo SC," the AIFF said in a statement.

Tough Group Missed — the ‘Group of Death’

Real Kashmir were drawn in what fans dubbed the “Group of Death", featuring heavyweights Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, and Chennaiyin FC.

The Snow Leopards were set to face East Bengal in the tournament opener on October 25, followed by fixtures against Mohun Bagan on October 28 and Chennaiyin FC on October 31.

Their withdrawal marks a significant blow to the club’s ambitions, especially after an encouraging I-League campaign last season.

For Dempo SC, this marks a return to top-tier competition. The Goan club — five-time I-League champions — will relish the chance to compete against ISL giants on home turf.

(with PTI inputs)

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

Read More

News sports Visa Woes Galore! Real Kashmir Forced To Withdraw From AIFF Super Cup

Read More