In a dramatic conclusion to the I-League 2024-25 season, Churchill Brothers FC Goa has been officially crowned champions, marking their third title and first in 12 years. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced the decision on April 19, 2025, following a protracted dispute involving second-placed Inter Kashi, who had hoped to challenge the outcome.
Churchill Brothers finished the season at the top of the table with 40 points after a final matchday draw against Real Kashmir on April 6. However, their championship status was clouded by a controversial ruling involving Inter Kashi's previous match against Namdhari FC, which had significant implications for the title race.
The controversy began when the AIFF Disciplinary Committee awarded three points to Inter Kashi after ruling that Namdhari fielded an ineligible player, Cledson Carvalho Da Silva, during their match on January 13, 2025, which Namdhari won 2-0. This ruling would have elevated Inter Kashi to 42 points, enough to clinch the title. However, the AIFF Appeals Committee intervened, stating that the initial decision lacked proper communication and rebuttal time for Namdhari, thus lifting the suspension on the player.
Justice (Retd.) Rajesh Tandon, the chairperson of the Appeals Committee, stated, "The order passed by the Disciplinary Committee originally dated December 31, 2024, cannot be allowed to stand in the light of Article 90 when Namdhari FC was not heard at the initial stage. The appeal therefore stands allowed." This ruling confirmed Churchill Brothers' standing as champions and ordered the AIFF to conduct a medal distribution ceremony promptly.
Following the announcement, Churchill Brothers owner Churchill Alemao expressed his gratitude, saying, "First of all, I want to pray Almighty and the lovely people of Goa. Because of God and the support of people, we became the champions." He emphasized that the club would not participate in the Kalinga Super Cup, which they had withdrawn from earlier due to the uncertainty surrounding their title.
Meanwhile, Inter Kashi, who finished the season with 39 points, expressed their disappointment and announced plans to take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to seek a fair hearing. In an official statement, they said, "Inter Kashi welcomes the order of the AIFF Appeals Committee following a protracted process which should have been wrapped up before April 6. The conclusion of the hearing, and with it, the exhaustion of all internal dispute resolution processes, enables Inter Kashi to approach the CAS for a truly free and fair hearing of the matter."
The club maintained that their case involves a straightforward interpretation of rules and regulations based on undisputed facts. They pledged to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice, warning that any celebrations by Churchill Brothers may prove premature.
As the dust settles on this contentious season, Churchill Brothers now prepares for their promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL) for the 2025-26 season, a significant milestone in their history. The club's success has not only added to their legacy but has also highlighted the intricate and often controversial nature of football governance in India.
In conclusion, while Churchill Brothers can finally celebrate their hard-fought title, the saga of the I-League 2024-25 season is far from over, with Inter Kashi's appeal set to unfold in the coming weeks.
