FIFPRO condemns AIFF’s attempt to form its own players’ association

FIFPRO, the global professional footballers’ union, on Sunday expressed concern over the decision of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to form its own players’ association.

Last week, the AIFF opened registrations for the formation of its own National Players’ Association (NPA), which included a set of criteria for interested candidates, including playing the sport at the top level in the country.

The NPA is an independent body represented by footballers. According to Schedule IV, Article 1.4 of the AIFF Constitution, the NPA (NPA) is not a separate legal entity and therefore has no authority to act on behalf of the AIFF or represent it to third parties.

The NPA has no authority to legally bind or bind AIFF in any way. The AIFF said the elections for the office bearers of the NPA board will be conducted by the Election Commission of the Federation.

«FIFPRO is deeply concerned by the decision of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to initiate a process to establish a players’ association under its own control. This is an attempt to bypass the Football Players’ Association of India (FPAI), the legitimate representative body of professional footballers in India,» FIFPRO said in a statement.

“A players’ association effectively controlled by the federation would deprive players of an independent trade union, as well as meaningful influence and collective bargaining power, all of which are fundamental to effective worker representation under International Labor Organization standards,” the Body added. «All the top leagues in professional football around the world have independent players’ unions. Unfortunately, AIFF is pursuing a wider and increasingly visible tactic in football governance, creating so-called ‘yellow unions’ to weaken, circumvent or delegitimize genuine and independent player representation.»

FIFPRO also said it had already contacted AIFF, FIFA and AFC through a letter in October, addressing these issues plaguing Indian football.

“We call on all relevant authorities and stakeholders to comply with international labor standards, democratic principles and the fundamental right of professional footballers in India to be represented by a legitimate, independent and player-led union,” the statement said.

(With PTI inputs)

Published on December 21, 2025