Nearly 18,000 specially designed seat covers purchased for India's high-profile football friendlies against Brazil and Uruguay have reportedly been abandoned in the open in Kolkata. The covers, featuring India's saffron, white and green colours, were reportedly purchased for approximately Rs 1.20 crore (Dh 467,370). They were originally used at Salt Lake Stadium during the international matches. However, after the fixtures concluded, the materials were reportedly removed and left outside the All India Football Federation's National Centre of Excellence in New Town. Exposure to sunlight and rain has raised concerns about the handling of the expensive materials.
Questions Raised Over AIFF's Spending
The issue attracted attention after journalist Jaydeep Basu questioned the federation's management of the seat covers and the decision to leave them unused. The incident has triggered criticism over the planning and financial management of Indian football. Questions have also emerged about who approved the purchase and why the materials were not stored or reused after the matches. The controversy has added to concerns surrounding the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and its administrative decisions.
India Suffered Heavy Defeats Against Brazil and Uruguay
The two international friendlies were significant occasions for Indian football, but the results were disappointing for the home side. Brazil defeated India 4-0 on October 3, while Uruguay secured a convincing 6-1 victory on October 6. Both matches attracted attention because of the international reputation of the visiting teams. However, the reported waste of stadium materials has now become another talking point following the disappointing performances.
Questions Continue Over International Match Payments
The controversy also comes amid reports about outstanding appearance-fee payments to Brazil and Uruguay. Brazil was reportedly promised between Rs 35 crore and Rs 40 crore, while Uruguay's reported fee was Rs 12.5 crore. These figures have not been officially confirmed by the AIFF. Reports have also suggested that the federation had paid only part of the promised amounts. The abandoned seat covers have therefore intensified questions about financial planning, accountability and resource management in Indian football.
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