The global football players’ union FIFPro has strongly criticized several Indian Super League (ISL) clubs for suspending player contracts and salaries, calling the move unlawful and damaging to athletes’ livelihoods. In an official email to FIFA, FIFPro urged the governing body to step in after receiving multiple complaints from players via the Football Players Association of India (FPAI).
According to reports, Odisha FC has invoked a ‘force majeure’ clause to suspend all player and staff agreements, while Chennaiyin FC has taken similar action. Bengaluru FC has also halted salary payments indefinitely for first-team players and staff. The issue stems from uncertainty surrounding the start date and schedule for the ISL 2025-26 season, leaving many players without income or clarity about their future.
FIFPro’s letter to FIFA highlighted that there is currently no confirmed timeline for the next season’s kickoff, no stable competition calendar, and no financial security for those involved. The union stressed that these unilateral suspensions violate labour rights and have created significant distress for players, many of whom rely solely on football for their income.
The FPAI confirmed that it reached out to FIFPro to advocate for Indian players during this crisis, emphasizing that athletes have families and financial obligations, and the present uncertainty is jeopardizing their careers. FIFPro has called on FIFA to take urgent steps to resolve the matter and protect the rights of professional footballers in India.
