THE I-LEAGUE CONTROVERSY

Image Credit- SPORTSTAR.

The All India Football Federation's (AIFF) Appeals Committee declared Churchill Brothers, the interim I-League leaders, the 2024–25 season winners on April 19, 2025, following weeks of drama and ambiguity. However, given that Inter Kashi, the other contender for the second-tier title, announced their intention to appeal the Appeals Committee's ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the AIFF's confirmation of the Goan club's title victory is unlikely to end one of the most turbulent seasons in Indian domestic football.

In order to look into the situation, the AIFF first established a disciplinary committee. The first decision gave Inter Kashi a 3-0 victory, which would have put them two points ahead of Churchill Brothers and guaranteed them the championship. But after Namdhari filed an appeal against the decision, an appeal panel decided in his favour on Saturday, solidifying Churchill Brothers' victory. As anticipated, the resentful party stated it will appeal to a higher adjudicating authority in an attempt to advance to the prestigious Indian Super League (ISL).

After the AIFF Appeals Committee ruled that Churchill Brothers were the I-League 2024–25 winners, ending the protracted title dispute, at least domestically, Inter Kashi has chosen to take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Inter Kashi said in a formal statement issued on Saturday that they "welcome the order" of the AIFF Appeals Committee since it ends all internal dispute resolution procedures and gives them the opportunity to apply to CAS for a "truly free and fair hearing". Inter Kashi has made it apparent from the start that the lawsuit is about a straightforward interpretation of laws and regulations based on certain undeniable facts. The statement said, "Inter Kashi will do everything in its power to ensure justice."

Who will end as the final winner? The answer lies in the womb of time. However, this season has truly been a season which no Indian fan will ever forget. It is quite unfortunate that the winner of the league is being decided in the courts rather than on the fields. One can only hope that this tragedy is not repeated ever again.