Real Kashmir FC, the popular I-League team based in Srinagar, announced their withdrawal from the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 due to delays in securing visas for their leading foreign players. This decision was made to ensure the team could compete at full strength. The club expressed that the situation was beyond their control but emphasized the importance of integrity in their decision-making process, according to a PTI report.
"Due to unavoidable circumstances, Real Kashmir FC has withdrawn from the AIFF Super Cup 2025. Visa delays for our foreign players made it impossible to compete at full strength - a decision beyond our control, but one made with integrity," the club announced on its social media handles.
Following Real Kashmir FC's withdrawal, Dempo SC has been named as their replacement in the tournament. The Super Cup is scheduled to commence in Goa on October 25, 2025. Dempo SC will now compete in Group A alongside Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, and Chennaiyin FC.
Meanwhile, The All-India Football Federation (AIFF) also posted about this development, saying, "Real Kashmir FC have withdrawn from AIFF Super Cup 2025-26, as VISAS for their foreign players could not be secured. They will be replaced by Dempo SC."
