Indian Football 2025: Governance Woes and On-Field Struggles
Indian football in 2025 continues to face a crisis both on and off the field, with governance issues overshadowing performances. In a telling statistic, the Supreme Court held 16 hearings related to football this year, while the men’s national team played only 12 matches. This disparity highlights the ongoing administrative chaos in Indian football.
National Team Struggles
India’s national team endured a humbling defeat to Bangladesh, marking the first loss in 22 years against the South Asian neighbors. Head coach Khalid Jamil faced criticism for a lethargic display that left fans frustrated. While other small nations, like Haiti and Curaçao, reached milestones in global competitions, India continued its predictable struggles.
On-Field Performance Concerns
The national team’s lack of preparation and coordination was evident during matches. Players appeared sluggish, and tactical execution fell short, emphasizing the gap between India and other emerging football nations. The poor showing has sparked debates about player development, coaching standards, and strategic planning.
Administrative Chaos in AIFF
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) remains mired in controversy, struggling to attract investment and manage domestic competitions efficiently. A senior executive criticized the federation’s ‘laziness’, citing internal power struggles and bureaucratic inefficiency as reasons for the ongoing stagnation.
ISL Revenue Disputes
For 15 years, the AIFF received Rs 50 crore annually from the Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), a Reliance Industries subsidiary. With the current contract ending on December 8, 2025, the federation has set high demands for new bidders, asking for Rs 37.5 crore or 5% of annual revenue, undervaluing other key football properties including national teams at just Rs 12.5 crore.
Domestic Football in Coma
With investment drying up and administration in disarray, the domestic football scene in India is struggling. Clubs face financial constraints, and the Indian Super League’s future is uncertain. The lack of strategic planning and professional management continues to impede the growth of grassroots and elite football alike.
Implications for Indian Football
- Declining international competitiveness
- Investor hesitation due to poor governance
- Limited development for youth and domestic players
- Erosion of fan engagement and media interest
Conclusion
Indian football in 2025 is at a crossroads. Governance issues, administrative inefficiencies, and poor on-field performances have created a perfect storm, leaving the sport in a state of stagnation. Without decisive reforms, professional investment, and strategic vision, India risks falling further behind in the global football landscape. Urgent attention is required to revive both the national team and domestic leagues to ensure sustainable growth.
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