AFI to mull over lucrative franchise-based league

New Delhi: The Athletics Federation of India is likely to take a decision on owning a commercial property which will organise a franchise-based athletics league in the country in a bid to make the sport lucrative and raise its profile. It is learnt that a company associated with a businessman involved in the organisation of World Kabaddi League has shown interest in running an athletics league on the lines of highly successful IPL cricket tournament and Indian Badminton League, and it will make a presentation at the AFI Annual General Body Meeting in Varanasi.

"We have been in talks for the last two months and a top official from the company will make a presentation at the AGM tomorrow and the House is likely to take a decision whether to accept their proposal or not," AFI Chief Operating Officer Manish Kumar said.

"If the House accepts their proposal, the AFI will be owning a big commercial property for the first time. The company has proposed to organise an Indian Athletics League on the lines of IBL. This company was involved in organising World Kabaadi League and so they are a proven entity," he added. The two-day AGM is also expected to discus on ways how to tackle the doping menace in athletics, especially at university and school levels and in service board competitions. 

The officials will also take stock of the issue of fudging at age-group events and at district competitions, besides taking a decision on the dates and venues of the Indian Grand Prix series which have been re-scheduled due to the advancement of Asian Grand Prix series dates. The AGM will discus the preparation of athletes for Asian Championships (June at Wuhan, China), World Championships (August in Beijing) and also for next year's Rio Olympic Games, besides the status of the coaches recommended to the Sports Authority of India for appointment.