Competition Commission of India

Department of Sports v. Athletics Federation of India

16.03.2016

MRTP/ Competition Laws

AFI decision mandating permission for marathons invites competition enquiry

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports brought proceedings against the Athletics Federation of India for alleged anti-competitive conduct before the Competition Commission. It complained of AFI’s decision in 2015 “to take action against state unites/officials/athletes who encourage unauthorised marathons without taking permission of AFI”.

The Commission found AFI the “supreme authority” exercising control over all athletic activities and events in the country, adjudging it dominant in the relevant services and geographic market. The Commission concurred that by imposing stringent requirements on the coordination of marathons AFI had imposed discriminatory conditions. It ordered an investigation into the matter by the Director General to be completed within sixty days.

The Federation has been recognised by the government as a body to promote athletics in India, to which end it receives disbursements from the exchequer and generates its own revenue through sponsorship and royalty agreements by organising athletics events.

Tags : Competition marathons athletics federation

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