AIFF confirms relegation of NEROCA and TRAU from I-League, ignores Biren Singh's request

New Delhi: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed on Tuesday that NEROCA FC and TRAU FC have been relegated from the I-League following their poor performances in the 2023-24 season. Despite appeals from Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh to exempt the Imphal-based clubs due to ongoing ethnic conflict in the state since May 3, 2023, the AIFF upheld its decision based on league rules and regulations.

"In the 13-team competition, NEROCA FC finished with 14 points and TRAU FC with 13 points, placing them at the bottom of the table and resulting in their relegation," stated the AIFF in a release. Mohammedan Sporting Club claimed the championship with 52 points.

Earlier decisions by the I-League Committee in May had recommended the relegation of NEROCA FC and TRAU FC based on their season's results. The clubs had previously requested to relocate their away matches against Aizawl FC to a neutral venue. However, after refusing to travel to Aizawl for these matches in April, the AIFF responded by cancelling the fixtures.

The relegation of these two clubs marks a significant outcome in the I-League, highlighting the enforcement of sporting regulations despite external appeals and challenges faced by the clubs during the season. PTI