AIFF Responds to Igor Stimac’s Accusations After Termination

New Delhi [India], June 24: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has responded to comments made by former head coach Igor Stimac following his termination on June 17. Stimac, a Croatian national, was let go after a virtual meeting with AIFF officials. He later accused AIFF and its president, Kalyan Chaubey, of not clearing his dues and threatened legal action.

In a statement, AIFF claimed Stimac’s comments were intended to tarnish the federation’s reputation. They also revealed that Stimac used an astrologer for team selection and player call-ups, which raised concerns about his coaching methods.

AIFF stated, “The new AIFF leadership was shocked to note his dependence on an astrologer to determine players’ call-ups and team selections.” They also mentioned that players had expressed concerns about Stimac’s coaching style and tactics.

Stimac had also accused AIFF of failing to provide GPS vests for 200 days. AIFF clarified that the equipment was lost in transit during the Asian Games 2023 and new devices were ordered and arrived in March 2024.

Regarding Stimac’s heart surgery, AIFF expressed shock at his public statements and accused him of not disclosing his medical condition.

AIFF concluded that they had to act in the nation’s interest and offered Stimac a mutual parting, which he refused, leading to his termination with a three-month severance fee.