Indian Super League (ISL) club Mohammedan Sporting Club has appealed to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to allow it to compete in the 2026-27 season despite finishing at the bottom of the league table and facing relegation.
The Kolkata-based club endured a difficult 2025-26 campaign, struggling with financial instability, the absence of an investor, and a FIFA-imposed ban. Those challenges were reflected on the pitch as Mohammedan Sporting failed to register a single victory throughout the season, collecting just three points.
Following its last-place finish, the Black and White Brigade was relegated in accordance with the Supreme Court order and the constitutional guidelines governing Indian football. However, uncertainty surrounding Indian Football League (IFL) champions Diamond Harbour FC has opened a possible route for the club to remain in the top division.
Diamond Harbour FC, which secured promotion to the ISL after winning the IFL title, is reportedly uncertain about participating in the 2026-27 season as it is under investigation by the West Bengal government over its source of funds.
According to reports, Mohammedan Sporting’s management views the situation as an opportunity to fill any vacancy that may arise. In a letter to the AIFF, General Secretary Wasim Akram requested the federation to consider the club as a replacement if Diamond Harbour FC is unable to take part.
“We understand that Diamond Harbour FC, despite securing promotion from the I-League, may not be in a position to participate in the upcoming ISL season due to internal operational constraints,” Akram wrote.
“In light of this development, we humbly request the federation to kindly consider Mohammedan Sporting Club as a potential candidate for participation in the 2026-27 season,” he added.
The appeal was discussed during the AIFF’s special general body meeting on Saturday. However, the final decision will rest with the ISL managing committee, comprising five club representatives and three AIFF officials.
Mohammedan Sporting, one of India’s oldest football clubs with a history spanning more than 135 years, believes it is now better equipped to overcome the challenges that plagued the previous season. The club said a newly appointed committee has assumed charge and is committed to rebuilding its financial and operational structure.
The club also assured that all pending financial dues owed to players, staff, and other stakeholders would be cleared immediately in line with AIFF and AFC club licensing regulations.
“We remain fully committed to meeting every regulatory, operational, and financial requirement necessary to compete at the highest level of Indian football,” the club said in a statement.
