The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has received a solitary bid in its quest to monetize the commercial rights of the Indian Women's League (IWL). Capri Sports, the sports business arm of Capri Global, has submitted the only proposal for a five-year partnership covering both the first and second divisions of the women's football league.
Scrutiny and Evaluation Process
This development follows a recent unsuccessful tender process for the men's top-tier tournament, the Indian Super League (ISL). The AIFF has now tasked its three-member Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) with thoroughly examining Capri Sports's submission. An official announcement regarding the bid's status is anticipated within the next 48 hours.
Capri Sports's Expanding Sports Portfolio
Capri Sports is not a new entrant in the Indian sports franchise ecosystem. The company boasts ownership of several high-profile teams across different leagues:
- UP Warriorz in the Women's Premier League (WPL - cricket)
- Sharjah Warriors in the UAE's International League T20 (ILT20)
- Rajasthan Warriors in the Ultimate Kho Kho league
- Bengal Warriors in the Pro Kabaddi League
Demonstrating a specific commitment to women's football, the company recently acquired Rudra FC in the Mumbai Football Association's Women's Premier League. The club has been rebranded as Warriorz FC and is mentored by former Indian national team captain, Aditi Chauhan.
Financial Stipulations and League Schedule
The AIFF's Request for Proposal (RFP) set clear financial criteria for potential bidders. The winning entity must have a net worth of at least Rs 30 crore by the conclusion of the 2024-25 financial year. Furthermore, the selected partner will be required to pay an annual fee of Rs 3 crore to the AIFF as a 'governance and development' charge.
The upcoming edition of the IWL is scheduled to be played in a unique two-phase format:
- The opening phase will be held centrally in Bengal from December 20, 2025, to January 6, 2026.
- The league will then go on a hiatus to allow the Indian women's national teams to prepare for major AFC tournaments, including the AFC Asian Cup, AFC U-17 Asian Cup, and AFC U-20 Asian Cup.
- The competition will resume with its second phase starting on April 20, 2026.
The entry of a serious player like Capri Sports, with its established multi-sport presence, could signal a significant step forward for the commercial viability and professional structure of women's football in India. All eyes are now on the AIFF's evaluation committee as they assess this crucial bid.
