Bengaluru FC, led by Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri, has officially reinstated the salaries of its first-team players and staff, reversing the suspension that was announced last month due to the uncertainty around the Indian Super League (ISL). The Bengaluru-based club confirmed that all pending payments have been cleared in full, bringing relief to players and employees.
The suspension of salaries was initially imposed on August 5 after ISL organizers, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), placed the league “on hold” because of the delay in renewing the Master Rights Agreement with the All India Football Federation (AIFF). However, following the AIFF and FSDL’s commitment to the Supreme Court to conclude the tendering process for a new commercial partner by October 15, Bengaluru FC moved swiftly to restore wages.
In its official statement, the club said, “Bengaluru FC is pleased to confirm that salaries of first-team players and staff have been reinstated, with all pending dues settled. We remain committed to the growth of Indian football and to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.”
Preparations for the upcoming 2025-26 season are set to begin on September 16 at the club’s new state-of-the-art training facility. Bengaluru FC has also confirmed its participation in the Super Cup, scheduled from October 25 to November 22, which will provide competitive action before the ISL season commences in December.
Meanwhile, Odisha FC remains hesitant to participate in tournaments until there is clarity on the ISL schedule and financial receivables. Club owner Rohan Sharma expressed his concerns about financial sustainability, highlighting the lack of an official start date and TV sponsorship as major hurdles. Odisha FC, like Bengaluru, had also suspended salaries last month but insists that confirmation of ISL dates will determine its involvement in competitions moving forward.
This development marks a positive step for Bengaluru FC, offering stability for players and staff as they prepare for the new season, while also reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by Indian football clubs amid administrative uncertainties.
