ISL Clubs Urge Sports Ministry: Suspend Relegation for 3-5 Years

• All 14 Indian Super League clubs have collectively asked the Union Sports Ministry to suspend the relegation system for 3-5 years, not just for the upcoming curtailed season.
• The clubs requested the ministry to present their stance to the Supreme Court through the Solicitor-General of India, following the court's intervention in the league's commencement.
• They argue that the abridged single round-robin season, due to time constraints and lack of a confirmed commercial partner, constitutes a 'virtual force majeure,' making relegation unfair.
• The clubs also cite uneven preparation levels and the absence of guaranteed commercial revenue as reasons for needing a longer moratorium on relegation to stabilize investment.
• This request conflicts with the Supreme Court-approved AIFF constitution and a 2019 AFC roadmap, both mandating promotion and relegation in India's top-tier football.

Why It Matters: ISL clubs seek a 3-5 year relegation suspension, citing force majeure and financial instability.