Synopsis
Churchill Brothers have been declared the champions of the I-League 2024-25 season after a ruling from the AIFF Appeals Committee. The decision follows a controversial match that led to the team being recognized as the top club, marking their second title in this league.Key Takeaways
- Churchill Brothers named I-League champions.
- Inter Kashi finishes just behind with 39 points.
- Controversial match led to title decision.
- Churchill Brothers promoted to ISL 2025-26.
- Inter Kashi plans to appeal for further justice.
New Delhi, April 19 (NationPress) Churchill Brothers have officially been named the champions of the I-League 2024-25 season after the Appeals Committee of the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) deemed them the provisional winners on Saturday.
Inter Kashi concluded the league with 39 points from 22 matches, falling just short of the leading team, Churchill Brothers FC Goa, who secured a draw against Real Kashmir in their final match of the season while hoping to be awarded three points to claim the title.
The pivotal moment arose during Match 45 of the league, where Namdhari FC triumphed over Inter Kashi with a score of 2-0. The AIFF disciplinary committee granted Kashi three points after it was discovered that Namdhari had fielded an ineligible player during their match. This decision was contested by Namdhari, and the outcome has now been announced.
“According to the order received from the AIFF Appeals Committee on Saturday (April 19, 2025), regarding the appeal from Namdhari Football Club concerning Match No. 45 of I-League 2024-25, Churchill Brothers FC Goa, possessing the highest points in the league, has been declared the champions,” stated the governing body.
This marks the second I-League title for Churchill Brothers, securing their promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL) for the 2025-26 season.
Kashi also issued a statement expressing their acceptance of the AIFF's decision. “Inter Kashi welcomes the ruling by the AIFF Appeals Committee after a lengthy process that should have concluded before April 6.
“The resolution of the hearing and the completion of all internal dispute processes now allows Inter Kashi to seek a genuine and impartial review from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
“From the outset, Inter Kashi has maintained that the case revolves around a straightforward interpretation of the rules and regulations based on some undisputed facts. Inter Kashi will pursue all avenues to ensure justice, and any celebrations in the meantime may ultimately be premature,” read the statement from Inter Kashi.
