Srinagar: After weeks of delay All India Football Federation (AIFF) Appeal committee has declared Churchill Brothers FC as the winners of the I-League 2024-25, thus gaining promotion to Indian Super League.
The decision was announced on Saturday in a case involving Namdhari FC vs AIFF. Churchill Brothers had finished top of the table with 40 points after a 1-1 draw against Real Kashmir on the final match day of the I-League 2024-25. However, they were not declared as champions due to an unresolved disciplinary issue involving title challengers Inter-Kashi.
The controversy centered around a previous AIFF ruling that awarded Inter Kashi three points after Namdhari FC were found guilty of fielding an ineligible player. That ruling, if upheld, would have pushed Inter Kashi to 42 points — two ahead of Churchill Brothers — and handed them the title.
The AIFF Appeals Committee had stayed that decision pending a final hearing, which took place earlier this week. With today’s official announcement, the AIFF has upheld the stay, confirming Churchill Brothers as the I-League champions and the team promoted to the ISL for the 2025–26 season.
“In view of the above Churchill Brothers FC Goa, Inter Kashi, and Namdhari FC has obtained 40 points, 39 points, and 32 points respectively. Accordingly, Churchill Brothers FC Goa, Inter Kashi, and Namdhari FC stands at No. 1, No. 2, and No.6 respectively at the Points table: I-League 24-25,” The final order signed by Justice Rajesh Tandon (Chairperson, Appeal Committee) reads.
“Consequently appeal i.e. Concerning the charge notice issued against Cledson C. Silva of Namdhari FC [Ref: AIFF/Disciplinary Committee/IL 2024-25/87] is allowed and appeal Concerning the charge notice for fielding an ineligible player of Namdhari FC (Cledson C. Silva) [Ref: AIFF/Disciplinary Committee/IL 2024 25/102] is automatically allowed,” it further said.
“So far as cost of Rs. 20,000 is concerned the same having been already deposited by the Appellant, the same shall remain in deposit and will not be refunded. As the I-League has concluded on 06.04.2025, the AIFF is directed to act forthwith by conducting a medal distribution ceremony in accordance with points obtained respectively,” order concluded.
