News for 'AIFF'

How AIFF's New Governance Framework Empowers Retired Footballers

How AIFF's New Governance Framework Empowers Retired Footballers

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has opened applications for its Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM) roster, a crucial step under the newly adopted National Sports Governance Act. This initiative aims to induct retired players into the federation's General Body, ensuring greater representation and direct involvement in governance. The process outlines specific eligibility criteria across various tiers of sporting achievement and allows direct applications, bypassing state association endorsements.

AIFF hands ISL commercial rights to clubs in historic agreement

AIFF hands ISL commercial rights to clubs in historic agreement

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

AIFF and ISL clubs have reached a landmark agreement that hands commercial rights to clubs while the federation retains regulatory control, paving the way for a club-led Indian Super League from the 2026-27 season.

'I should've been India coach': Constantine blasts AIFF

'I should've been India coach': Constantine blasts AIFF

Rediff.com7 days ago

Former India football coach Stephen Constantine has expressed deep disappointment over the national team's current decline, criticising the All India Football Federation for its decisions, including the appointment of Khalid Jamil as coach despite his lack of international experience. Constantine, who led India to a historic FIFA ranking of 96, believes he should still be managing the team and calls for wider structural reforms in Indian football.

New FIFA-AIFF Academy Boosts Indian Football Talent

New FIFA-AIFF Academy Boosts Indian Football Talent

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The FIFA-AIFF Telangana Academy, a new high-performance football training centre for boys and girls, has been launched in Hyderabad. This initiative, a collaboration between FIFA, AIFF, and the Telangana government, aims to nurture young talent with comprehensive support, including residential facilities and medical care. It marks India's first girls' football academy of its kind.

AIFF Unanimously Adopts Revised Constitution, Introduces Key Changes

AIFF Unanimously Adopts Revised Constitution, Introduces Key Changes

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has unanimously approved its revised Constitution, aligning with the National Sports Governance Act (NSGA), 2025. This significant overhaul, decided at a virtual Special General Body Meeting, introduces a new election panel, mandates national anthems before matches, modifies foreign player rules in ISL, and updates the disciplinary code, aiming to enhance governance, transparency, and player development in Indian football.

AIFF Seeks Ministry, FIFA Nod For Name Change To FFB

AIFF Seeks Ministry, FIFA Nod For Name Change To FFB

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has proposed changing its name to the Football Federation of Bharat (FFB). This significant proposal, accepted during a Special General Body Meeting, now awaits crucial approvals from the sports ministry and FIFA.

September 4 Start Confirmed for ISL, But AIFF Defers League Structure Decision

September 4 Start Confirmed for ISL, But AIFF Defers League Structure Decision

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The AIFF has approved a September 4 start for the 2026-27 Indian Super League but deferred a final decision on the league's governance structure, with further discussions set to continue between the federation and ISL clubs.

AFC And AIFF Hold Crucial Talks On ISL Future And Governance

AFC And AIFF Hold Crucial Talks On ISL Future And Governance

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Senior officials from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) met in New Delhi to discuss key issues including the Indian Super League (ISL), the AIFF's Constitution, and compliance with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025. The AFC assured AIFF of continued support for Indian football.

AIFF Secretary Rubbishes Corruption Claims Against President Chaubey

AIFF Secretary Rubbishes Corruption Claims Against President Chaubey

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) secretary M Satyanarayanan has refuted allegations of corruption against president Kalyan Chaubey, stating that no concrete evidence has been found.

Indian Super League Players In Limbo Amid AIFF Uncertainty

Indian Super League Players In Limbo Amid AIFF Uncertainty

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Nearly 150 Indian Super League players, including national team members, face an uncertain future as their contracts expire amid ongoing disputes between the AIFF and clubs over the league's structure.

AIFF Rushes Replacements After Mohun Bagan Withdraws Players

AIFF Rushes Replacements After Mohun Bagan Withdraws Players

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has added five players to the national team for the Unity Cup in London after Mohun Bagan Super Giants withdrew their players. The AIFF is working to secure visas for the new players before the first match against Jamaica.

Which ISL Clubs Received AIFF Licensing With Sanctions?

Which ISL Clubs Received AIFF Licensing With Sanctions?

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Seven Indian Super League clubs, including East Bengal, were granted the AIFF Club Licensing Premier 1 licence with sanctions for the 2026-27 season, while applications of several top-flight sides, including Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Kerala Blasters FC, were rejected.

AIFF To Amend Constitution, Discuss ISL Partner At SGM

AIFF To Amend Constitution, Discuss ISL Partner At SGM

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) will hold a Special General Body Meeting to amend its constitution in line with the National Sports Governance Act and discuss the new commercial partner for the Indian Super League.

AIFF Approves Governance Act, Postpones ISL Commercial Partner Decision

AIFF Approves Governance Act, Postpones ISL Commercial Partner Decision

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has approved the adoption of the National Sports Governance Act but deferred a decision on picking a new commercial partner for the Indian Super League (ISL) during its Special General Body Meeting.

AIFF Enhances Coach Education With AFC Fitness Course

AIFF Enhances Coach Education With AFC Fitness Course

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) recently conducted an AFC Fitness Course (Level 1A) at the Inspire Institute of Sport, aiming to strengthen coach education and fitness training standards within the Indian football ecosystem.

AIFF Announces Tentative Football Season Calendar For 2026-27

AIFF Announces Tentative Football Season Calendar For 2026-27

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has released its tentative calendar for the 2026-27 season, featuring the Indian Super League (ISL), Federation Cup, and other key tournaments.

Joakim Alexandersson Back As India U-17 Women's Head Coach For AFC Qualifiers

Joakim Alexandersson Back As India U-17 Women's Head Coach For AFC Qualifiers

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Joakim Alexandersson has been reappointed as the head coach of the India U-17 women's national football team, less than a year after his previous departure. He will lead the squad in preparations for the AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers in October, where India is grouped with Malaysia, Syria, and Iraq. The team aims to build on its historic quarter-final achievement in the previous Asian Cup.

DSA Leadership Crisis Deepens As Ad Hoc Committee Formed

DSA Leadership Crisis Deepens As Ad Hoc Committee Formed

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A factional feud has erupted within the Delhi Soccer Association (DSA), leading to the formation of a three-member ad hoc committee by a majority of its members. This committee aims to manage daily affairs and hold elections on August 30, bypassing current president Anuj Gupta, who has labelled the move "illegal" and plans legal action.

Punjab FC blank Zinc FA to defend AIFF Youth League title

Punjab FC blank Zinc FA to defend AIFF Youth League title

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Punjab FC defeated Zinc Football Academy 3-0 to successfully defend their AIFF Elite Youth League title, with three second-half goals sealing the victory.

AIFF, ISL Clubs Review Genius Sports' Commercial Rights Plan

AIFF, ISL Clubs Review Genius Sports' Commercial Rights Plan

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The All India Football Federation met with Genius Sports and Indian Super League club owners to discuss a major proposal regarding the league's commercial rights, focusing on a long-term vision for India's top-tier competition.

AIFF Women's Committee Head Alemao Alleges Harassment By President Chaubey

AIFF Women's Committee Head Alemao Alleges Harassment By President Chaubey

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is facing controversy after Valanka Alemao, head of the women's committee, accused AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey of harassment and intimidation during a recent meeting.

Former AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das Passes Away

Former AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das Passes Away

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Kushal Das played a pivotal role in organising the 2017 FIFA Under-17 World Cup in India.

AIFF Alleges Pressure from Executive Member to Include Churchill Brothers in ISL

AIFF Alleges Pressure from Executive Member to Include Churchill Brothers in ISL

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has accused its executive committee member Valanka Alemao and her family of pressuring the organisation to include Churchill Brothers FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) through unconventional means.

ISL Clubs Allege AIFF Profiting Despite Assurances

ISL Clubs Allege AIFF Profiting Despite Assurances

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Twelve Indian Super League clubs have accused the All India Football Federation of retaining a surplus from the current season, despite promising not to profit from the league.

AIFF Justifies Women's Team Coach Choice, Explains Kit Issues

AIFF Justifies Women's Team Coach Choice, Explains Kit Issues

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has defended its decision to appoint Amelia Valverde as head coach of the women's national team and addressed the controversy surrounding team kits during the Asian Cup.

AIFF and Dream Sports Foundation Join Forces to Develop Youth Football in India

AIFF and Dream Sports Foundation Join Forces to Develop Youth Football in India

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced a multi-year partnership with Dream Sports Foundation (DSF) to strengthen U16 football in India, focusing on grassroots development and a cohesive pathway for young players.

AIFF Seeks Indian Coach for Women's National Team After Valverde's Exit

AIFF Seeks Indian Coach for Women's National Team After Valverde's Exit

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has decided not to renew the contract of women's team head coach Amelia Valverde, opting to consider Indian coaches for the role following recommendations from its technical committee.

Former AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das Passes Away at 66

Former AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das Passes Away at 66

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Kushal Das, former AIFF general secretary, passed away at 66. He played a key role in developing Indian football, including organising the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup.

AIFF Opens Bidding for Club Competition Commercial Rights

AIFF Opens Bidding for Club Competition Commercial Rights

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has invited bids for the commercial rights of men's and women's club competitions, offering two packages for a minimum of 15 years starting from the 2026-2027 season.

ISL Clubs Request More Time to Evaluate AIFF Commercial Rights Bidders

ISL Clubs Request More Time to Evaluate AIFF Commercial Rights Bidders

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Indian Super League clubs are urging the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to postpone any binding decisions regarding the new long-term commercial rights holder, citing insufficient opportunity to properly assess the bidders.

AIFF Executive Committee Reviews Bids for Commercial Rights, Considers Sports Governance Act

AIFF Executive Committee Reviews Bids for Commercial Rights, Considers Sports Governance Act

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is evaluating commercial rights bids for its flagship competitions, including the Indian Super League and the Indian Women's League. The Executive Committee is also discussing the implementation of the National Sports Governance Act.

AIFF Women's Committee Alleges Lapses Led to Asian Cup 'Blunders'

AIFF Women's Committee Alleges Lapses Led to Asian Cup 'Blunders'

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation's women's committee chief, Valanka Alemao, has alleged procedural lapses by the body's technical committee led to a series of blunders during the national team's Asian Cup campaign, including ill-fitting jerseys.

Indian Super League moves to club-led model as September 4 kick-off confirmed

Indian Super League moves to club-led model as September 4 kick-off confirmed

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has agreed "in principle" to the club-led model of running the Indian Super League (ISL) for two years and has conveyed it to the sports minister, a top official said on Tuesday.

AIFF Defends Women's Asian Cup Preparations After Group Stage Exit

AIFF Defends Women's Asian Cup Preparations After Group Stage Exit

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The AIFF defends its preparation for the AFC Women's Asian Cup despite India's group-stage exit, citing extensive overseas exposure and matches. An inquiry has been ordered into a kit controversy.

Special Olympics Bharat Hails Football Team's Gothia Cup Bronze

Special Olympics Bharat Hails Football Team's Gothia Cup Bronze

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Indian Special Olympics football team secured a bronze medal at the Gothia Cup in Sweden, marking their third consecutive podium finish. Special Olympics Bharat president Malika Nadda praised the team's resilience and determination, while coaches highlighted the challenges of adapting to artificial turf and expressed ambitions for future gold medals.

Indian Men's Football Team Set For Historic New Zealand Tour

Indian Men's Football Team Set For Historic New Zealand Tour

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

The Indian men's football team will embark on its first-ever tour of New Zealand in November for two international friendlies. This historic visit, part of '100 Years of Unity Through Sport' initiatives, marks India's return to an Oceania Football Confederation nation after nearly two decades and offers a valuable challenge against a FIFA World Cup-experienced side.

Shaji Prabhakaran: OCI/PIO Players Need Balanced Strategy For Indian Football

Shaji Prabhakaran: OCI/PIO Players Need Balanced Strategy For Indian Football

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

AFC Executive Committee member Shaji Prabhakaran advocates for a balanced, long-term strategy for integrating OCI and PIO players into Indian football, stressing it's not a complete solution but a part of broader development. He also analyses recent World Cup semifinals, highlighting Spain's tactical dominance and Argentina's fighting spirit.

Punjab FC Strengthens Squad With Mohammed Inam Signing

Punjab FC Strengthens Squad With Mohammed Inam Signing

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Punjab FC has announced the signing of Mohammed Inam, a talented footballer from Jammu and Kashmir, on a two-year contract. Inam, who previously captained Real Kashmir FC, brings experience from the Indian Football League, I-League qualifiers, and the Durand Cup to his new club.

Manolo Marquez: World Cup expansion dilutes quality, India needs grassroots focus

Manolo Marquez: World Cup expansion dilutes quality, India needs grassroots focus

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Spanish football coach Manolo Marquez has criticised the expansion of the FIFA World Cup, arguing it compromises quality and that countries like India should prioritise grassroots development over relying on increased qualification slots. He also highlighted the impact of naturalised players on international competition, citing his experience with the Indian team.

Why ISL Clubs Are Reviewing Their Commitment

Why ISL Clubs Are Reviewing Their Commitment

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Several Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have hinted at uncertainty regarding their participation in the 2026-27 season due to ongoing issues surrounding the domestic top-tier competition. The clubs are reviewing their commitment beyond the current season amid disagreements with the AIFF over commercial partnerships and league structure.