AIFF Can Emulate IPL Model to Run ISL, Says Bhaichung Bhutia

Legendary Indian footballer Bhaichung Bhutia on Saturday suggested that the All India Football Federation (AIFF) could take cues from the Indian Premier League (IPL) to successfully manage the Indian Super League (ISL). His comments came after the Supreme Court approved the AIFF’s draft constitution, giving the federation full ownership of the country’s top-tier football league.

The apex court’s ruling mandates that India’s premier football league can no longer be owned or operated by private entities. Consequently, the AIFF will assume sole responsibility for organizing and managing the ISL.

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Bhutia emphasized the importance of a collective effort. “It will be a challenge for the AIFF, but with cooperation from all stakeholders, the league can be successfully organized. The IPL model can serve as the biggest example of how a league can be run efficiently while ensuring competitiveness and fan engagement,” he said.

Football experts believe that the AIFF taking direct control could reshape the structure of the ISL, potentially leading to greater central oversight, financial transparency, and standardized operations across clubs.

The move marks a significant shift in Indian football governance, aligning league management more closely with the national federation rather than private ownership.