Bengaluru, February 2, 2026 – In a move reflecting the challenging financial climate within Indian football, Bengaluru FC's players, led by the iconic Sunil Chhetri, have agreed to take pay cuts for the Indian Super League (ISL) season. The ISL, which was delayed and then paused for over four months, is set to resume on February 14 in a truncated format.
Parth Jindal, the owner of Bengaluru FC, expressed his gratitude to the players for their willingness to make this "sacrifice" for the betterment of the club and the sport. Jindal acknowledged the difficult situation facing Indian football and emphasized the importance of open communication with the team's players in navigating these turbulent times.
"Everyone is well aware of the challenging phase Indian Football is going through," Jindal stated on 'X'. "For me, as BFC team owner and someone who is deeply passionate about the sport and the club, this has been one of the toughest periods ever,". He further added, "I am grateful to all the first team players who have agreed to reduce their remuneration during this phase. Without a doubt, this was one of the toughest decisions we have had to make as a club, and I truly appreciate that the players have made this sacrifice in the best interests of the club and the sport".
The ISL season will restart on February 14 with a condensed schedule. The truncated season will feature 91 matches played on a home-and-away basis, with each team contesting 13 games.
This decision by Bengaluru FC players follows a similar move by FC Goa, where players and staff, including India captain Sandesh Jhingan, also accepted pay cuts. FC Goa released a statement on X, stating that they held "honest and difficult conversations" with the squad and staff amid the ongoing turmoil in Indian football and the uncertainty surrounding the league.
These developments highlight the financial strain currently impacting Indian football clubs. The AIFF has issued a Request for Proposal for broadcast rights. Clubs will bear 60 percent of the league's financial cost, estimated at Rs 25 crore.
Sunil Chhetri, whose net worth was estimated to be around ₹8 crore in 2024, earns a significant portion of his income from club contracts, endorsements, and the Indian national team. While his Bengaluru FC contract contributes significantly, a large portion of his income comes from brand partnerships with major brands such as Pepsi, Puma, Tata Motors, and Iodex. His willingness to accept a pay cut, along with his teammates, underscores the commitment of Bengaluru FC to navigate the current challenges and sustain the club's operations.