Churchill Top I-League, But Title Awaits Appeal Verdict

The final round of the I-League 2024-25 season concluded on Sunday, April 6th, but the official champion and the team securing promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL) remain undecided due to a pending appeal involving Inter Kashi. While Churchill Brothers currently sit atop the final points table, their title is contingent on the outcome of Inter Kashi’s case.

Inter Kashi, presently on 39 points, protested their 1-0 loss to Namdhari FC on January 13th, alleging that Namdhari fielded an ineligible player. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Appeals Committee is yet to deliver its verdict on the matter.

If the appeal is successful and Inter Kashi are awarded the three points from the disputed match, their total would rise to 42 points, surpassing Churchill Brothers and securing them both the I-League title and the sole promotion spot to the ISL for the upcoming season.

However, the AIFF’s decision is reportedly expected only after the conclusion of the final league matches, leaving both Churchill Brothers and Inter Kashi in a state of uncertainty regarding their final positions and promotion fate.

The I-League serves as India’s second-tier football competition, with one club earning promotion to the top-flight ISL each season. Punjab FC (2023) and Mohammedan Sporting (2024) are the two clubs promoted in recent seasons under this system. Details regarding which teams face relegation from the I-League based on the final standings were not included in the provided text.