Igor Stimac, who served as the head coach of the Indian football team, has been dismissed by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) following a two-year stint. Stimac, appointed in 2019, had his contract extended to 2026, but his tenure was abruptly terminated on June 17. This decision comes amid significant financial and administrative controversies. FIFA has imposed a fine of USD 9 lakh (approximately INR 7 crore) on Stimac in connection with the matter.
The issue was thoroughly discussed during an AIFF executive committee meeting held in Hyderabad on Monday. Last year, the AIFF initiated an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the renewal of Stimac’s contract. Stimac had previously demanded Rs 7 lakh from the FIFA tribunal, prompting the need for a detailed inquiry into the situation.
Despite the contract extension signed in 2023, the AIFF has now opted for a financial settlement to resolve the dispute, leading to substantial financial losses for the organization. The federation has agreed to pay up to USD 4 lakh (about INR 3.8 crore) in damages. Consequently, Stimac is unlikely to take up any future roles within Indian football.
In addition to these developments, AIFF members expressed concerns about their representation within various committees of the Asian Football Confederation. The AIFF has acknowledged these concerns and is committed to addressing the issues to improve representation and ensure fair practices in future engagements.
Overall, the termination of Stimac’s contract and the associated financial ramifications underscore the complexities and challenges facing Indian football administration. The AIFF’s focus now shifts towards managing these financial impacts and enhancing its representation in international football bodies.
