AIFF seeks clarity on three clauses before inking deal with ISL clubs | Goa News
Panaji: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has sought clarification from Indian Super League (ISL) clubs on three clauses before formally handing over commercial rights of the top tier league for four years.While accepting the proposal from clubs “in principle and on a subject-to-contract basis,” AIFF deputy secretary general M Satyanarayan called for “clarification and amendment” on three clauses.The first includes the right to inspect and audit the books, records, accounts and operations of the ISL special purpose vehicle (SPV). “Such rights are a standard part of similar arrangements and formed a part of the earlier request for proposal issued to third parties in relation to similar rights,” Satyanarayan wrote in an email to all clubs on Thursday.The AIFF has also staked claim for 10% of the gross profit derived from all revenue streams of ISL, “such share being referable to AIFF’s role in the operation of ISL, with the remaining 90% accruing to the clubs.” The proposal from clubs, clause 1.3 to be precise, records the AIFF Administrative Fee as the sole financial contribution payable by them.Another sticking point is the clubs’ unilateral right to terminate the arrangement at the end of the second year, which, sources said, was discussed during the meeting with Union sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya. Instead, after the first two seasons, AIFF wants “the right to require a renegotiation of the terms of the arrangement, including the clubs’ financial contribution, based on the circumstances and status of the League prevailing at that time.”“In the event the clubs choose to exercise their right to terminate at the end of the two-year period, such termination should be following sufficient notice, which will allow AIFF to make alternative arrangements for the continued operation of ISL,” said AIFF.AIFF has announced that ISL will kick off on Sept 4.
