Bengaluru: In a development that underscores growing concerns over the future of the Indian Super League (ISL), Bengaluru Football Club has announced the indefinite suspension of salaries for its first team players and staff.
In an official release issued by the club, Bengaluru FC said, “In view of the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Indian Super League season, Bengaluru Football Club has taken what is a very difficult decision of indefinitely suspending the salaries of players and staff belonging to the first team.”
The club cited the ongoing lack of clarity about the upcoming ISL season as the reason behind the drastic move. “Running and sustaining a football club in India has always been an uphill climb, one that we have put everything aside and made, season after season. However, the lack of clarity on the League’s future leaves us with no choice but to take this step,” the release read.
The decision is expected to impact players and staff significantly. The Bengaluru FC emphasised its concern for their well being, stating, “The future and well-being of our players, staff and their families is of utmost importance to us, and we are in touch with them as we wait for a resolution.”
However, the club has confirmed that its grassroots and youth development programmes will continue uninterrupted. The release said, “The club remains committed to growing and developing the sport and our operations with our youth teams — men and women, and BFC Soccer Schools remain unaffected by this decision.”
The club made a strong appeal to football authorities, urging the AIFF and FSDL to end this impasse swiftly. “The uncertainty benefits no one, and a prompt resolution is vital for the future of Indian football,” it added.
