Indian Football Faces Roadblock Despite Messi Mania

The recent high-profile tour of India by football stars Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Rodrigo De Paul has starkly illuminated the financial struggles plaguing Indian football. Tens of thousands of fans filled stadiums in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, with substantial corporate and fan expenditure. However, this enthusiasm for international stars contrasts sharply with the reality of domestic leagues. The All India Football Federation's Request For Proposal for the Indian Super League and I-League broadcast rights failed to attract any bidders, even with significantly reduced annual payments. This occurred while major sponsors, whose Indian Super League clubs like Bengaluru FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant are experiencing uncertainty, aligned themselves with the Messi tour.

Both ISL and I-League seasons currently have no set timeline for commencement. ISL clubs are reportedly losing around Rs 25 crore annually amid this logjam, with suggestions of a 'financial reset' to address escalating player salaries and improve financial sustainability. Fan attendance for domestic matches remains low, with tickets costing between Rs 100-300, a stark difference from the thousands fans paid to see Messi. This situation leaves team owners in a precarious financial state, questioning the reward for their investment in a sport that struggles to attract consistent support.