Bengaluru, Karnataka- Bengaluru FC, recognized as one of the most successful clubs in the Indian Super League (ISL), has declared an indefinite halt to the salaries of its first-team players and staff, including well-known captain Sunil Chhetri. This decision comes in light of growing uncertainties regarding the upcoming 2025–26 ISL season.
In a statement released over the weekend, the 2018–19 ISL champions conveyed their regret, stating that this action was necessary due to the uncertainty surrounding the league’s short-term prospects.
“Running and sustaining a football club in India has always been an uphill climb, one that we have put everything aside and made, season after season,” the club said.
“However, the lack of clarity on the League’s future leaves us with no choice but to take this step.”
The ISL has been suspended following a stalemate in contract renewal discussions between the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) and their commercial associates, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), which is led by Reliance. Negotiations to extend their 2010 agreement have been put on hold after the Supreme Court mandated the AIFF to refrain from finalizing a new contract.
Without a clear direction from the league organizers, Bengaluru FC has called on the AIFF and FSDL to address the issue for the sake of Indian football’s future.
“The Club remains committed to growing and developing the sport and our operations with our youth teams – men and women, and BFC Soccer Schools remain unaffected by this decision. We urge the AIFF and FSDL to end this impasse swiftly. The uncertainty benefits no one, and a prompt resolution is vital for the future of Indian football,” the club urged.
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