Former champions Bengaluru FC have indefinitely suspended salaries for their first-team players and senior staff, a drastic measure taken in response to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future of the Indian Super League (ISL).
The club confirmed the move in a statement released Monday, citing a “lack of clarity” from league organisers and the national federation as the primary reason for the decision.
“Running and sustaining a football club in India has always been an uphill climb,” Bengaluru FC stated. “However, the lack of clarity on the League’s future leaves us with no choice but to take this step.”
The club assured that the “future and well-being of our players, staff and their families is of utmost importance to us,” and that they remain in contact with all affected personnel while awaiting a resolution.
This situation stems from a major contractual dispute between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the entity that operates the ISL. The Master Rights Agreement (MRA) that underpins the league’s structure is set to expire on December 8, 2025, leaving the upcoming season in limbo.
On July 11, FSDL announced that the 2025-26 ISL season had been placed “on hold,” prompting an impasse that now directly impacts club finances and player livelihoods.
In its statement, Bengaluru FC urged the governing bodies to act swiftly. “We urge the AIFF and FSDL to end this impasse swiftly. The uncertainty benefits no one, and a prompt resolution is vital for the future of Indian football.”
The club clarified that its wider operations, including its men’s and women’s youth teams and its Soccer Schools academy program, would remain unaffected by the salary suspension.
The AIFF, which has previously stated it would take necessary steps to ensure the league’s continuity, is scheduled to meet with the CEOs of eight ISL clubs in New Delhi this Thursday to address the crisis.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.