AIFF Proposes Early Super Cup Start Amid ISL Uncertainties

New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) - The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has proposed holding the Super Cup starting from the second or third week of September to provide Indian Super League (ISL) clubs more competitive match opportunities, amid uncertainties regarding the start date and format of this season's top-tier league.

During a meeting with representatives from all ISL clubs, AIFF discussed concerns over the future of the league, which has been put on hold because of uncertainties surrounding the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the league organizers and the national federation.

"AIFF proposes that the Super Cup football tournament start from the second or third week of September to ensure the ISL clubs get enough competitive matches," said AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey. "The AIFF and all the 13 ISL clubs collectively took the decision in national interest. We will meet again in 7 to 10 days and take a final decision."

Representatives from Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal, and Odisha FC joined the meeting virtually, while delegates from the remaining 10 ISL clubs attended in person in New Delhi.

"We are hoping to have ISL this season, though it may be a bit delayed," Chaubey added. "We can do it with certain changes, maybe in format or other areas. But no final decision has been made on those aspects yet."

Typically, the Super Cup is held at the end of the season, but it may be used to kick off the new season under the current circumstances.

India is scheduled to play against Singapore in the AFC Asian Cup qualification round on October 9 and 14, and the Super Cup is expected to conclude before these fixtures.

ISL is traditionally held from September to April, and the current MRA between Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the league organizer, and the AIFF is set to expire on December 8, 2025. By this time, the ISL would have entered its third month of play.

Amidst these uncertainties, two-time ISL champions Chennaiyin FC announced on Wednesday a temporary suspension of operations for their first-team players and staff. Bengaluru FC and Odisha FC had previously made similar announcements.

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