Panaji: At least six clubs are yet to officially confirm their participation in the Indian Super League (ISL) and will wait to hear from the sports ministry and All India Football Federation (AIFF) before announcing their final decision.Many clubs were hesitant and told the sports ministry their participation was based on assurances during the meeting and tangible measures from the federation to assist clubs in reducing the financial burden. despite the ministry announcing the start of the league in Feb.According to sources, conditional emails have been sent by Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, Kerala Blasters, FC Goa and Mumbai City. Odisha FC have also not confirmed and will write to the AIFF on Thursday with the club’s decision hinging on “costs and relegation.”All clubs said their decision to even consider participation this season is primarily at the request of the sports minister, who attended the joint meeting on Tuesday. Clubs now need help from the ministry with infrastructure, particularly in Goa, where the stadium and training ground belongs to the Sports Authority of Goa, and in Chennai where the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu owns and operates the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.A common demand from all clubs was to waive the franchise fee of Rs 1 crore this season, particularly since they are already contributing directly to the operational costs of running the league.“If all clubs contribute Rs 1 crore each as franchise fee and the AIFF’s contribution is approximately Rs 10 crore, the federation is still making a profit of Rs 4 crore. Where is the shared responsibility? It is the clubs who are spending all the money and shouldering financial losses. In difficult times, without sponsors, central revenue and even gate collection, this is a big ask,” said a senior official who asked not to be named.Clubs have also sought help with player salary reductions to ensure that the overall cost structure remains sustainable.
