New Delhi: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) proposed a participation framework structure for both the top-tier Indian Super League (ISL) and the second-division I-League over the past couple of days. While these are still proposals and have not yet been approved by the clubs concerned, they differ in how much control the AIFF wants to exercise over the two tiers of Indian football.
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AIFF to control both ISL, I-League
In both proposed frameworks, clubs and commercial partners have representation. However, the stark difference lies in the level of control afforded.In the proposed ISL framework, the AIFF has retained final authority and veto power on key decisions, which is not the case in the I-League proposal.The AIFF has proposed two bodies for the ISL, one Governing Council and another to run day-to-day operations.The Governing Council will comprise the AIFF President or Secretary General, AIFF Vice President, AIFF Treasurer, one representative from each club, three representatives from the rights partner or broadcaster, for which a request for proposal is yet to be floated, and two independent members.The Management Committee will be responsible for the league’s day-to-day operations. It will include the AIFF Secretary General, the AIFF Head of Competitions, the AIFF Head of Strategy, five club representatives and three rights partner representatives.
AIFF retains control in ISL functioning
While the ISL Governing Council is expected to convene infrequently, the AIFF has effectively retained control. All decisions require a simple majority, but at least two affirmative votes must come from AIFF representatives. As a result, AIFF officials will largely determine outcomes.Revenue sharing, prize money allocation, significant budget alterations, broadcast or commercial rights matters, long-term agreements and contracts above Rs 1 crore will all require the AIFF’s affirmative vote.
I-League clubs have more say
Even though the AIFF will fully own and operate the I-League, the clubs will collectively be responsible for commercial and operational decisions.As with the ISL structure, the AIFF will have a say in matters pertaining to sporting integrity, regulatory compliance and disciplinary jurisdiction. However, the AIFF has chosen not to exercise veto powers in matters relating to broadcast rights, digital or media rights, sponsorships, marketing, branding or commercial exploitation.
ISL clubs not fully behind proposed structure
Not all ISL clubs are satisfied with the current proposal shared by the AIFF. One official, who chose to remain anonymous, noted that the structure is not new and had previously been discussed under Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL). The official added that the limited influence afforded to the commercial partner could once again prove to be a hurdle when the AIFF invites bidders.Another ISL club official offered a different perspective, comparing the current proposal to the FSDL era, when clubs had little say in most governance matters.
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I-League proposed to begin on February 19
On Friday, the AIFF also informed I-League clubs about the proposed schedule for the second division of Indian football. The 11-team league is expected to begin on February 19 and run for 80 days.The I-League will be played in a home-and-away format, with five home and five away matches for all teams. In a reminder of the COVID-affected 2020-21 season, the top six teams will progress to the playoffs, while the bottom five will fight to avoid relegation.
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