Xtra Time Web Desk: The All-India Football Federation (AIFF) on Monday announced the revival of the Federation Cup starting from the 2023-24 season. The decision was made during the AIFF Ex Co’s annual general meeting held in Bengaluru, with AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey presiding over the committee. The Federation Cup, which was first established in 1977, was once considered the premier club football competition in India and held great significance among football enthusiasts nationwide.
Before the National Football League took precedence in 1997, the Federation Cup served as the ultimate national-level club football tournament in the country. It provided a platform for teams from different regions to compete against each other, showcasing their determination, talent, and passion for the sport. The cup became synonymous with excellence and was eagerly anticipated by fans who witnessed thrilling encounters and remarkable displays of skill and teamwork.
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In addition to reviving the Federation Cup, the AIFF also approved five corporate applications for direct entry into the I-League, the second-tier football league in India, starting from the upcoming season. The applications from Punjab, Delhi, Bengaluru, Varanasi, and Haryana were reviewed by an independent financial expert and accepted by the AIFF’s league committee. Bunkerhill Private Limited, based in Ambala, Haryana, will decide whether to withdraw their proposal or continue their association with Mohammedan Sporting Club in Kolkata, which will determine the final number of new teams in the 2023-24 I-League.
Here are the five new entities in I-League 2023-24: YMS Finance Pvt Ltd (UP) Namdhari Seeds Pvt Ltd (Punjab) Nimida United Sports Development Pvt Ltd (Karnataka) Concatenate Advest Advisory Pvt Ltd (Delhi) Bunkerhill Pvt Ltd (Haryana).