The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has made a significant announcement, prohibiting registered players, coaches, and referees from participating in any ‘unapproved tournaments’. This decision, announced on Friday, has recommended that Member Associations (MA) take action against those who participate in such tournaments, as per their state constitutions. The governing body has also urged the states to strictly implement their registration policies pertaining to tournaments.
This announcement came just hours before a charity match was scheduled to kick off at Aizawl’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Mizoram, featuring several current Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League players. The match, organized by the Mizoram FA, aimed to raise funds for individuals affected by Cyclone Remal. Notable players like Lallianzuala Chhangte, Apuia, and David Lalhlansanga were set to participate in the match.
The AIFF’s decision has created a stir, particularly due to its impact on the charity match. The Mizoram sports minister, Lalnghinglova Hmar, has publicly defended the match, stating that their state constitution permits hosting such charity events. He emphasized the importance of using sport for charitable purposes, arguing that the AIFF’s decision seemed unrelated to the match’s objective.
Hmar has also shed light on the context behind the AIFF’s announcement, stating that it was decided in a previous executive committee meeting, held on the eve of Sunil Chhetri’s farewell match. He acknowledged the existence of associations in some states that operate parallel to the MAs and organize matches, but expressed his limited knowledge of the situation due to his absence from the meeting.
The charity match, described by Hmar as ‘one of the biggest games in Aizawl’ due to its immense turnout, also served as a platform to honor rescue workers. Despite heavy rain, the match witnessed a massive crowd. The proceeds from the event are still being counted, so an official statement on the funds raised is yet to be released.
The AIFF’s strict stance against unapproved tournaments has sparked debate, highlighting the potential conflict between regulatory measures and the spirit of charitable initiatives within the sport.
