Two-time Indian Super League (ISL) champions Chennaiyin FC have announced a temporary suspension of all club operations, pointing to growing uncertainty over the future of the ISL as the key reason behind the decision.
In a statement posted on social media platform X on Wednesday, the club said the move came after “much thoughtful consideration and careful deliberation,” while acknowledging the emotional and practical impact on those involved with the team.
“This is not a step we take lightly. It affects people we care about deeply,” the club noted, referring to its players, coaching staff, administrative personnel and their families.
The Chennai-based club further stated that while it remains committed to the development of Indian football, the current challenges of being an ISL stakeholder — especially in the absence of clear direction for the upcoming season — had made operations unsustainable, at least for now.
Earlier this year, Chennaiyin FC had already disbanded its youth set-up, hinting at deeper structural issues.
“We hope that this pause will be short-lived and that we can return to doing what we love as soon as there is clarity for all clubs. Our commitment to Indian football remains as strong as ever,” the statement added.
The decision comes at a time when several ISL clubs are under strain. Just two days ago, Bengaluru FC announced a freeze on first-team player salaries, signalling a wider financial crunch.
Amid this backdrop, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is set to hold a crucial meeting with the CEOs of ISL clubs on Thursday to discuss the roadmap for the league. While Chennaiyin FC was initially excluded from the discussions, it has since been invited, along with Mumbai City FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, and Mohammedan SC.
With multiple clubs in a state of limbo, the AIFF meeting is expected to be a make-or-break moment for the immediate future of the country’s top-tier football league.
