Sports
AIFF’s Request to Withdraw Fixed Deposit for Brazil, Uruguay Friendlies Rejected
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) sought to withdraw money from a Rs 20 crore fixed deposit to pay Brazil and Uruguay for last month’s international friendlies, but the proposal was rejected by general‑body members. The AIFF had invited Brazil, the five‑time world champions, and Uruguay, former World Cup and Olympic winners, to play two high‑profile friendlies against India in Kolkata. Panama also played a friendly in Bengaluru. While Panama has been paid in full, Brazil and Uruguay have received only 50 % of their appearance fees. The AIFF now seeks an extension to clear pending payments of approximately Rs 19 crore to Brazil and Rs 4.7 crore to Uruguay. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey asked members to approve withdrawing the money before the deposit’s maturity, promising to return it later. Vice‑president NA Haris reminded members that the executive committee had previously decided not to use funds from the fixed deposit. A former FIFA Council member, present at the virtual meeting, opposed the proposal and was supported by several member‑association presidents. The total amount due was not disclosed at the meeting due to confidentiality clauses. A core group chaired by Haris was formed to share finer details. Until the executive committee approves, money from the fixed deposit cannot be used to pay the dues. In addition to appearance fees, the AIFF may need to return part of the ₹25 crore paid by the ticketing partner as a “recoupable advance.” The federation had expected ticket revenue of ₹30‑40 crore but high ticket prices led to lower sales. AIFF announced discounted tickets for supporters of the three major Kolkata clubs—Mohun Bagan SG, East Bengal, and Mohammedan Sporting—and promoted a “Buy 1 Get 1 Free” offer for the India vs. Brazil match on its social media. Brazil arrived in India with a full‑strength squad that included Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr, Marquinhos, PSG captain Gabriel Magalhães, Endrick, and Estavo.}