The Indian Super League (ISL) dispute has now reached a global stage. FIFPro, the world football players’ union, has approached FIFA to protect footballers’ rights. At the same time, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) plans to take the matter to the Supreme Court.

Contract dispute puts next ISL season in doubt

The future of the 2025–26 ISL season is uncertain. AIFF and its marketing partner, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), have not renewed their contract, which ends in December 2025. Talks between the two have stopped. The Supreme Court has told AIFF not to make major decisions until it gives a final order on the federation’s constitution case.

AIFF to raise the matter before Supreme Court

Earlier, AIFF had announced that the league would take place later this year. However, in a statement on Thursday, the federation said it would now present the matter before the Supreme Court next week.

“A discussion was held between the legal representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs, on Thursday… It has been agreed by all parties that the concerns of the ISL clubs… will be conveyed to the Hon’ble Supreme Court next week, for its kind consideration,” AIFF said on X.

FIFPro steps in to protect players

Meanwhile, reports from the Telegraph and other Indian media say FIFPro has written to FIFA against some ISL clubs for “unlawful suspension” of player contracts. FIFPro sent the email after the Football Players Association of India sought their help.

“Unfortunately, there is currently no clear roadmap in terms of the next competition edition’s kick-off and calendar, but also no financial stability, which is obviously fundamental for all interested parties, especially the players who we represent,” the letter to FIFA stated.

It also noted, “A significant number of players have approached FIFPro and its members to report unilateral suspensions of their employment contracts until further notice by various clubs due to participate in the ISL. Such unlawful suspensions — in direct breach of the players’ labour rights — combined with the general state of uncertainty surrounding the near future of the ISL, have plunged players into a great state of uncertainty and distress. Their livelihoods and careers are on the line.”

The letter urged FIFA to act quickly: “We would appreciate any clarification you may have, and any actions you could urgently take in order to contribute to the solution of this situation… FIFA cannot continue to effectively ignore one in five people on the planet.”

Clubs suspend first-team contracts

Clubs such as Bengaluru FC, Odisha FC, and Chennaiyin FC have already suspended contracts of their first-team players.