ATK Mohun Bagan have fulfilled the licensing criteria to acquire the AFC and AIFF National Club Licences for the upcoming season. Indian Super League newcomers East Bengal have failed to obtain the license on the other hand.
There are around 11 clubs participating in the Indian Super League. 6 teams have gained the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) club licensing.
Teams who have been able to satisfy the licensing criteria are ATK Mohun Bagan FC, FC Goa, Jamshedpur FC, Mumbai City FC, Chennaiyin FC and Bengaluru FC.
On the flip side, SC East Bengal, Hyderabad FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC have failed to acquire the license.
Such clubs must either appeal against the verdict of the Club Licensing Committee or may apply for exclusion. In case they want to appeal, the Club Licensing Appeals Body of the AIFF will hear it. The clubs need to do so before a specified date to take part in any other national club competition.
ATK rivals East Bengal fail to receive AFC and AIFF license, apply for exemption
Sources have established that SC East Bengal have taken the decision to apply for an exemption. They were the last side to make an entry into the Indian Super League this term.
Previously, clubs had to follow up with five necessary licensing basis. However, this time, the AFC has eased off owing to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation. The standards absolved by the AFC are security officer, youth development program, grassroots program, medical support services, club youth academy, youth physiotherapist, youth coaches, head of youth development, security and safety organisations and a club development program.
Bengaluru FC, Jamshedpur FC, FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC have successfully completed the licensing procedure for the third year running.
On July 14, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) established the club licensing system for the 2020-21 season. Entitled clubs received a Club Licensing Application Pack (CLAP). They were then requested to tender a signed copy of the Club Licensing agreement. This would serve as a declaration that they are prepared to take up the lead in procuring a license.
The AFC decided to extend the deadline. Clubs can now deposit the required paperwork for the Club Licensing till November 13, in October.
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