Sporting Club Bengaluru push for I-League participation

Bengaluru: Sporting Club Bengaluru wrote a letter to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for participation in the much-delayed I-League, starting February 21, in case any of the 11 confirmed teams pull out of the second-tier league of Indian football.

SC Bengaluru, who finished in the bottom two last season, may have a shot at participation as the Goan club Churchill Brothers have boycotted the I-League, set to be renamed Indian Football League, in their protest for not getting a spot in the top-tier Indian Super League over their champions' controversy with Inter Kashi.

It is also worth noting that the bottom-placed side from last season, Delhi FC, has been pushing for a stay on relegation and its appeal was heard last Monday by AIFF's disciplinary committee. A decision on the matter will be pronounced on Wednesday. 

"In light of recent uncertainties surrounding club participation across divisions, we consider it appropriate to place on record that, in the event any vacancy arises in the I-League owing to withdrawal, non-participation or any other contingency, Sporting Club Bengaluru would be fully prepared and willing to participate in the forthcoming I-League season," wrote SCB to AIFF. 

DH has learnt that SCB, who are on the verge of getting direct investment from a major Serie A club, are willing to pay the participation fee of Rs 20 lakh while some of the confirmed participants are yet to clear their dues.  

The practice of allowing relegated clubs to compete upon vacancy is not new in Indian football as Kenkre FC were allowed to compete in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons after the non-participation of Chennai City FC and Indian Arrows respectively. 

Also, Aizawl FC were allowed to compete in the 2016-17 season following the withdrawals of three clubs.