Former Indian football coach Igor Stimac held a bombshell press conference on Friday, June 21, where he laid bare a series of allegations against the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
Sacked after India’s disappointing FIFA World Cup and AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaigns, Stimac accused the AIFF of lying, providing inadequate support, and prioritizing personal interests.
He also took aim at AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, claiming he was politically instated and had no knowledge of football.
Key Allegations
- Contract Termination: Stimac revealed he had decided to resign prior to the Asian Cup, but was sacked by the AIFF without mutual consent.
- Unfulfilled Promises: The AIFF allegedly promised to extend Stimac’s contract only if India reached the Asian Cup quarterfinals, a condition the team failed to meet.
- Lack of Support: Stimac claimed the AIFF failed to provide basic equipment such as GPS vests and video cameras, forcing the team to “steal” resources from FC Goa.
- Unpaid Staff: Stimac’s support staff reportedly worked without compensation for extended periods.
- Influence of Private Interests: Stimac accused certain individuals within the AIFF of putting their own interests ahead of the national team’s welfare.
Stimac’s Views on Indian Football
- Imprisoned: Stimac believes Indian football is “imprisoned” by governance issues and unlikely to improve in the near future.
- Lack of Trust: He expressed a lack of trust in the AIFF and FSDL (Football Sports Development Limited), the league organizers.
- Outdated Calendar: Stimac called for a revised football calendar that prioritizes national team preparations and ensures player development.
Criticism of AIFF President
- Politically Instated: Stimac alleged that Chaubey was installed as AIFF President through political means.
- Lack of Knowledge: He claimed Chaubey had little understanding of football and was more concerned with social media presence.
- Priority of Likes and Images: Stimac accused Chaubey of valuing popularity over the well-being of Indian football.
Conclusion
Stimac’s allegations have sent shockwaves through the Indian football community, raising serious questions about the governance and management of the sport.
The AIFF has not yet responded to the allegations, but is expected to issue a statement in the coming days.
The situation has cast a shadow over the future of Indian football, and the AIFF will need to address the allegations swiftly and transparently to restore confidence in the national team and the sport itself.
Divya