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 and issued a strong statement condemning discrimination in Indian football.
“The All India Football Federation has received certain complaints regarding alleged racist behavior against players during the ongoing Indian Super League 2025-26,” the association said in an official statement released on its social media platforms.
“We stand firmly with the players and every individual who has the right to take part in this beautiful game and enjoy it free from discrimination of any kind. The AIFF has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism. The complaints have been referred to the Disciplinary Committee, an independent judicial body, for consideration in accordance with the AIFF Disciplinary Code. The AIFF will not make any further comments during the ongoing proceedings.
The Indian football family stands firmly against racism. Anyone who brings hatred into our stadiums has no place in our game,” the statement said.
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.
Ndiaye was reportedly targeted by sections of the crowd with insulting shouts, including “Go to the zoo”, sparking outrage across the football community. Kerala Blasters quickly condemned the incident and escalated the matter to both the ISL authorities and the AIFF, demanding strict action and better protection for the players.
“The club has taken note of an appalling incident that occurred during our last match 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 take appropriate measures 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.
Club statement. pic.twitter.com/GYVSbr8Ne9
— Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) April 13, 2026
Racism is a recurring problem in Indian football
This was not the first time that racism has overshadowed Indian football. The AIFF has faced several similar controversies over the years.
In 2023, Kerala Blasters had already raised concerns after Aibanbha Dohling was allegedly subjected to racist gestures against the same team Bengaluru FC. In the same year, NorthEast United FC fans reported that they were racially abused and even had projectiles thrown at them during a Durand Cup semi-final against East Bengal.
Even further back: In 2019, Mumbai City FC head coach Jorge Costa accused a 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 racist comments.
