The AIFF Executive Committee has referred three bids for long-term commercial rights for club competitions to KPMG for scrutiny. This decision comes in the wake of a request by Indian Premier League clubs to avoid a binding decision on the 15+5 rights course. The clubs will also meet the bidders to answer queries, ensuring transparency before the AIFF’s general body considers the matter.
New Delhi: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Executive Committee has decided to refer the three long-term bids for commercial rights for club competitions to audit firm KPMG for “assessment of feasibility and key aspects”. The decision came a day after Indian Super League (ISL) clubs urged the governing body not to take a “binding decision” on the 15+5 rights course.The AIFF received three bids: FanCode, Genius Sports (for the ISL and Federation Cup) and Capri Sports (for the Indian Women’s League and IWL 2). Genius Sports made a bid of Rs 64.39 crore per annum (about Rs 2,129 crore for 20 years) while FanCode made a bid of Rs 36 crore per annum (about Rs 1,190 crore). Capri Sports is the sole sponsor of women’s football with a turnover of Rs 150 crore over 20 years.
He watches
ISL Commercial Rights: AIFF received two different bids
“Three bids for the relevant commercial rights – by FanCode, Genius Sports (for the ISL Championship and Fed Cup), and Capri Sports (for the IWL and IWL2 Championships) – have been submitted before the Executive Committee,” FIFA said in a statement.
The statement continued: “After detailed deliberations, it was decided that KPMG would prepare comprehensive comparison tables to evaluate the feasibility and key aspects of the bids.”During the bid opening process on 27 March, the clubs did not mention that they had taken the time to review the Request for Quotations (RFQ) document. The crucial document was shared with clubs just 12 hours before bids opened.The clubs were also not satisfied with the 60-30-10 revenue model proposed between the clubs, the commercial partner and the federation.
They sought a separate presentation from the presenters to evaluate and understand their methods.During the AFC Executive Committee meeting, it was made clear that the process would be followed at the clubs’ request.“To ensure greater clarity and transparency in the process, the clubs associated with the competitions will also hold meetings with the relevant bidders to answer any queries they may have,” FIFA said.“After preparing the comparison analysis, bidders will be asked to submit term sheets within a specified timeline.“The matter will subsequently be submitted to the General Body of the AIFF for consideration in accordance with the provisions of the AIFF Constitution,” the statement read.