The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has finally broken its silence on the ongoing racism controversy in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season, issuing a strong statement condemning discrimination in Indian football.
"The All India Football Federation has received certain complaints regarding alleged racist conduct against players during the ongoing Indian Super League 2025-26", the federation said in an official statement released on their social media platforms.
"We stand firmly with the players, and every individual who has the right to participate in and enjoy this beautiful game free from discrimination of any kind. The AIFF maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards racism. The complaints have been referred to the Disciplinary Committee, an independent judicial body, for examination as per the AIFF Disciplinary Code. The AIFF will refrain from any further comments while the proceedings are ongoing.
The Indian Football family stands resolutely against racism. Those who bring hatred into our stadiums have no place in our game," the statement reads.
What Sparked the ISL Racism Controversy?
The issue came to light following a formal complaint by Kerala Blasters FC after their defender, Fallou Ndiaye, was allegedly subjected to racist abuse during an ISL match against Bengaluru FC on April 11, 2026, at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium.
According to reports, Ndiaye was targeted by sections of the crowd with offensive chants, including "go to zoo," sparking outrage across the football community. Kerala Blasters were quick to condemn the incident and escalated the matter to both the ISL authorities and the AIFF, calling for strict action and better protection for players.
"The Club has taken note of an appalling incident which has occurred during our last game, where one of our players was subjected to blatant racist chants. The Club strongly condemns this act and has formally raised this matter with the relevant ISL and AIFF authorities. We will also pursue appropriate action to protect the integrity of our player. There is no place for racism in our game," Kerala Blasters said.
Bengaluru FC also condemned the act by fans and assured that appropriate action would be taken against those responsible.
Racism is a Recurring Issue in Indian Football
This was not the first time, racism has shadowed the Indian football. The AIFF has faced multiple similar controversies over the years.
In 2023, Kerala Blasters had earlier raised concerns after Aibanbha Dohling was allegedly subjected to racist gestures during against the same team Bengaluru FC. The same year, NorthEast United FC supporters reported racial abuse and even projectiles being thrown at them during a Durand Cup semifinal against East Bengal.
Going further back, in 2019, Mumbai City FC head coach Jorge Costa accused a match referee of using racist language towards a player. In 2018, Minerva Punjab FC owner Ranjit Bajaj faced a one-year ban and a hefty fine for making racist remarks.