AIFF forced to delay Hero I-League over broadcaster confirmation

The dates for the kick-off for the next season of the I-League was initially moved from November 2 to November 16. However, the committee, which met on Friday, has decided to postpone the inauguration by another two weeks, with the AIFF now looking at November 30 as the ideal date for a start. It is understood that there are at least two driving factors behind the decision. 

“Many clubs had spoken to AIFF and said that if we release the fixtures now and give them time till November 16, it will be too short to prepare for the league and make travel plans. This is the festive season, the fares for travel and accommodation are very high. They wanted a postponement by some days,” Dutta said, reported TOI.

Meanwhile, it is common knowledge that the national federation is yet to strike a broadcast deal for the I-League, with the participating clubs being given the permission to look out for a broadcaster on their own.

“We need some more time to decide on the broadcaster. We are already in discussion with a new broadcaster and a production house. Within a few days, things should be sorted out,” Dutta added.