AIFF Faces 85 Crore Deficit After Hosting Friendlies

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) faced a financial deficit of 85-90 crores after hosting three international friendlies against Brazil, Uruguay, and Panama. The matches were well-received by fans and players, but the financial burden on the federation became a point of contention.

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey proposed using the federation's fixed deposits to cover the deficit, but members during a Special General Body Meeting (SGBM) on Sunday opposed the plan. Officials present at the meeting confirmed that Chaubey had previously stated the federation would not bear the financial burden of the friendlies.

A top official from a leading state association, who attended the online meeting, confirmed that Chaubey initially suggested liquidating the AIFF's fixed deposits to pay the deficit. However, he later claimed funds would be arranged from external sources before repaying the withdrawn amount from the FD.

AIFF Vice President NA Haris intervened to state that the Executive Committee had already decided the FD could not be liquidated. Chaubey, when asked about the matter, declined to comment further, citing the internal nature of the meeting.

Former AIFF President Praful Patel raised concerns during the meeting, noting that Chaubey had previously promised to fund the friendlies from external sources. Patel urged Chaubey to disclose the amount and timing of the AIFF's financial obligations to creditors.

A member also raised concerns over how the AIFF would fund and conduct championships, football development programmes, the Santosh Trophy, and other events while continuing to incur losses.