AFI Mandates Approval for Athlete Sponsorship Deals

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has implemented a significant policy requiring track and field athletes to secure its prior approval before entering into sponsorship agreements. This rule is in response to the frequent sponsor changes by athletes and coaches, which has raised concern within the federation.

According to a circular by AFI, the goal is to protect the interests of both athletes and sponsors by ensuring agreements are stable and officially approved. Presidents and secretaries of affiliated units and coaches have been tasked with communicating this new requirement to relevant athletes.

The circular also directs sponsors to verify with AFI before finalizing agreements, with confirmations expected within three days from request. Notably, after the 2024 Paris Olympics, AFI's operational camps are now only for relay teams, as most elite athletes have joined private or governmental organizations for training.