In a significant development for Indian football, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have reached an agreement on a four-year club-led model. This announcement was made during a press conference in New Delhi, where AIFF Deputy Secretary General M. Satyanarayan outlined the new roadmap for the league.

Details of the Agreement

The newly established model will see the creation of a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to manage the commercial aspects of the ISL. If all 14 clubs participate, the AIFF is set to receive Rs 15.4 crore, which breaks down to Rs 1.1 crore for each club as administration fees, along with a 10% share of the net profits. The agreement also addresses previous concerns regarding independent auditing of the SPV, the profit-sharing model, and a termination clause.

Financial Contributions and Future Considerations

Under this agreement, the financial contributions from ISL clubs will increase over the four-year period, starting with Rs 1.1 crore in the first year and rising to Rs 1.25 crore by the fourth year. Clubs have the option to suspend their participation in the model after two years, provided they give the AIFF appropriate notice. Satyanarayan expressed optimism about the clubs' commitment to the model, stating, "However, given the way things are progressing, it will probably not happen."

Background and Evolution of the Model

The AIFF's stance on the club-led model has evolved since its initial proposal on May 14. Following a meeting with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on June 8, the federation clarified that it had never been opposed to the concept. Previously, the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) partner, FSDL, was managing the league, but the new model marks a shift towards greater club autonomy.

This agreement represents a pivotal moment for the future of Indian football, aiming to enhance the commercial viability of the ISL while ensuring the AIFF maintains its responsibilities regarding refereeing, legality, integrity, and anti-doping efforts.