PANAJI: With the Indian Super League (ISL) now opening its door to teams qualifying on sporting merit, the I-League could turn out to be an attractive option for corporates looking to break into the top tier of Indian football.
The I-League has had several direct entrants, many of whom have become champions. Bengaluru FC, Gokulam Kerala FC and Minerva Punjab (Punjab FC) won the league twice, while Chennai City FC also finished on top.
For next season’s I-League, sources said, there have been inquiries from corporates who are keen on a direct entry, but will have to wait for the go ahead from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
The League committee meets on Monday to decide on the direct bidding criteria for I-League.
Sources said the committee could have three-tier criteria with cities classified as tier-1, tier-2 and tier-3.
“I personally feel direct entries should be allowed if there is the right investor who wants to build a good team, but it’s up to the League committee to take the decision,” AIFF secretary general Shaji Prabhakaran told TOI on Sunday.
“Bengaluru FC is a good example of a corporate investing into football. There will be serious interest only when it’s known whether direct entries are allowed or not. The possibilities are 50-50. Personally, I feel the league should open up.”
In the past, corporates have sought direct entries by paying a fee. But while some have stayed on and become champions, others have shut shop.