ISL 2025–26: Churchill Brothers Left Out — AIFF Ends Promotion Hopes After I-League Title Row
New Delhi : Churchill Brothers will not take part in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025–26 season, following a decisive ruling by the AIFF Executive Committee, bringing an end to the Goan club’s hopes of top-tier football this year.
The decision stems from the long-running I-League 2024–25 title controversy, where Churchill Brothers had finished on top with 40 points, just one point ahead of Inter Kashi (39 points). However, after legal proceedings, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned AIFF’s earlier stance and awarded the I-League title and ISL promotion to Inter Kashi.
“The AIFF shall forthwith declare Inter Kashi FC as the winner of the I-League 2024–25 season,” CAS ruled.
Why AIFF Rejected Churchill’s ISL Entry
According to AIFF officials, the league’s schedule, legal clarity, and logistical planning made a late addition impractical. With the ISL season approaching, the federation opted to maintain stability rather than restructure the competition.
Former India captain Baichung Bhutia criticized the episode, calling it a “failure of administration” and highlighting persistent governance issues in Indian football.
Match & Season Context (Key Numbers)
I-League 2024–25 Final Standings:
Churchill Brothers — 40 points
Inter Kashi — 39 points
Title outcome: Overturned after CAS ruling
ISL 2025–26 promotion spot: Awarded to Inter Kashi
Bigger Impact
For Churchill Brothers, this marks a major sporting and administrative setback, while for Indian football, it reignites debates on:
Promotion transparency
Legal delays in league decisions
Governance accountability
What was once a historic promotion dream has now turned into one of Indian football’s most dramatic off-field controversies.
