 "AIFF turns to Supreme Court after no bids for commercial rights of ISL: 'Next step in the process'")
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has decided to approach the Supreme Court after failing to attract a single bid for the commercial rights of the Indian Super League (ISL). The 12th season of the ISL, which usually begins in September, is yet to kick off with no confirmed start date in sight.
The AIFF had launched a tender process on October 16 to find a new commercial partner to handle the league’s broadcasting and digital rights. The initial deadline for submissions was November 5, which was later extended to November 7 after no bids were received.
AIFF to take Supreme Court’s help?
In a statement released on Sunday, November 9, the federation confirmed that even after extending the original deadline, they failed to attract bids for the commercial rights of ISL. The Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) met to review the situation and will submit a report to the Supreme Court soon.
“The Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) held a meeting on Sunday, November 9, 2025, to review and discuss the status of the ‘Request for Proposal (RFP) for Awarding the Right to Monetise the Commercial Rights Belonging to the All India Football Federation for a Limited Term,’” the AIFF said in a statement.
“Following the deliberations of the Committee, the Chairperson of the BEC, Justice (Retd.) L. Nageswara Rao will submit his report to the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India as the next step in the process,” AIFF added.
The Supreme Court had earlier directed the Kalyan Chaubey-led AIFF to adopt its new constitution and start a tender process for the ISL’s commercial rights, which were earlier managed by Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL). The 10-year agreement between the AIFF and FSDL is set to expire in December.
After failing to reach an agreement, the FSDL put the 2025-26 ISL season on hold. The delay has caused concerns among the clubs, with several teams reportedly halting their first-team operations.
The league’s future structure and ownership model have been under scrutiny since the end of its previous commercial agreement. Among them are Kerala Blasters and defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant, both of whom are awaiting clarity on the upcoming season.
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