football federation

Indian football faces an uncertain future as the AIFF seeks a commercial partner. Coaches and players are in limbo, with contracts expiring soon. Clubs cannot plan ahead, and many top players are set to be out of contract. This situation impacts the entire league, leaving everyone awaiting clarity on the roadmap for upcoming seasons.

The Islamic Republic of Iran are preparing for the FIFA World Cup 2026 amid ongoing concerns over travel and visa arrangements linked to geopolitical tensions. FIFA officials, including secretary-general Mattias Grafstrom, remain confident Iran will participate as scheduled in the United States. Led by captain Mehdi Taremi and coach Amir Ghalenoei, Team Melli are targeting a historic first appearance in the knockout stage. Iran will face New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Group G while finalizing preparations through a training camp and friendly matches in Turkey.

Thirteen Indian Super League clubs have presented a proposal to the AIFF, advocating for club-led commercialisation of the league. The plan suggests clubs hold 90% ownership in the ISL's operating entity, with AIFF retaining 10%. While acknowledging Genius Sports' tech expertise, clubs seek a reduced payment for the UK-based entity.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner spent time at Wimbledon taking tennis lessons with former British star Kyle Edmund before a huge Premier League clash against Manchester City. Palace could help Arsenal win the title with a victory at the Etihad. Glasner said the tennis session helped him learn more about pressure, mindset, and preparing for major moments.

FIFA and Iran’s football federation held high-level talks in Istanbul to address growing concerns surrounding Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Discussions focused on visas, security and operational planning after political tensions raised uncertainty around the team’s travel. FIFA remains confident Iran will compete as scheduled, while Iran says several key concerns were addressed before the squad departs for training camps in Turkey and Arizona.

Donald Trump has criticized the NFL’s growing shift toward streaming platforms and fragmented broadcast rights, arguing that it risks limiting access for ordinary fans. In a recent Full Measure interview, he warned that rising costs and multiple subscriptions could alienate viewers and even harm the league’s long-term popularity. While the Department of Justice investigates the NFL’s media distribution practices, Trump stopped short of calling for intervention but expressed clear discomfort with the current direction.

Indian Super League clubs, excluding East Bengal, have proposed a club-led model for future league operations and commercialisation. They aim to manage responsibilities, citing local market knowledge and cost-saving potential. This proposal comes ahead of a crucial meeting with the AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey on May 22.

Indian Super League (ISL) clubs face an uncertain future due to a deadlock with the AIFF over commercial rights. Clubs are pushing for a collaborative operational model, citing financial woes and a lack of clarity that threatens their continued participation and the league's ecosystem.

Canadian star Alphonso Davies remains doubtful for the upcoming home FIFA World Cup after suffering a serious hamstring injury, with FC Bayern Munich set to make the final decision on his participation. Reports suggest Bayern’s medical department will have complete authority over whether the left-back is cleared to join the Canadian national team for the tournament.