It’s all done, and after many controversies, the I-League 2024-25 presentation ceremony took place in Goa on April 27, where Churchill Brothers FC Goa were handed the champion’s trophy and winners’ medals, following an order from the AIFF Appeals Committee. However, on the same day, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) issued a stay on the AIFF Appeals Committee’s April 18 decision, barring the All India Football Federation (AIFF) from officially declaring the I-League winner or conducting a medal ceremony until the ongoing arbitration, initiated by Inter Kashi, is resolved.
Churchill Brothers, who topped the I-League 2024-25 standings with 40 points from 22 matches, were poised to be crowned champions. However, the official confirmation was delayed, pending approval from the AIFF Appeals Committee.
The AIFF clarified that it only received information about the CAS order after the ceremony had concluded, due to a holiday in its secretariat. The dispute centres around Inter Kashi’s allegation that Namdhari FC fielded an ineligible player in a crucial match, which, if ruled in Inter Kashi’s favour, could alter the final standings and affect ISL promotion. With the CAS order now in effect, the official status of Churchill Brothers as champions is in limbo, and all parties, including AIFF, Churchill Brothers, and Namdhari FC, have until April 29 to submit their full replies to Inter Kashi’s application for provisional measures at CAS.