THE BLAST

STORY OF KERALA BLASTERS Kerala Blasters FC was founded in 2014 as one of the inaugural teams of the Indian Super League (ISL). The franchise-based football league was established to promote football in India and provide a platform for both domestic and international players to showcase their talent. Kerala Blasters was owned by a consortium of investors, with former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar being one of the prominent stakeholders. The decision to include Kerala as a franchise in the ISL was significant due to the state's deep passion for football. Kerala has a rich footballing tradition and a fervent fanbase, making it an ideal location for a football franchise. The team was named "Kerala Blasters" to reflect the spirit and energy of football in the state. The club quickly gained popularity, attracting a large and enthusiastic fanbase known for their passionate support during matches. Kerala Blasters played their home games at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, which became a fortress for the team due to the overwhelming support from the local fans. Under the guidance of their first head coach, former English goalkeeper David James, Kerala Blasters made an impressive debut in the ISL's inaugural season, reaching the finals but narrowly missing out on the title. Since then, the club has been a prominent presence in Indian football, consistently competing in the ISL and contributing to the growth of the sport in Kerala and beyond. CLUB OWNERSHIP : As of my last update in January 2022, the ownership structure of Kerala Blasters FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) includes multiple investors and entities. One of the most prominent owners of Kerala Blasters FC is Sachin Tendulkar, the iconic former Indian cricketer often regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket. Tendulkar's involvement in the club has brought significant attention and credibility to Kerala Blasters FC. Additionally, Kerala Blasters FC is owned by a consortium of investors, which may include other individuals, organizations, or corporate entities. However, specific details about the entire ownership group may not always be readily available due to the nature of private ownership structures. For the most current and detailed information regarding the ownership of Kerala Blasters FC, it is recommended to refer to official announcements from the club or reliable sports news sources. Ownership structures can sometimes change over time, so it's essential to verify with the latest sources for accurate information. Formation and Early Years (2014-2015): Kerala Blasters FC was established in 2014 as one of the original franchises of the Indian Super League (ISL). In their inaugural season (2014), under the guidance of head coach David James, Kerala Blasters reached the final but were narrowly defeated by Atletico de Kolkata. The team garnered significant attention and support from fans across India, establishing a strong foundation for future seasons. Consolidation and Development (2015-2016): In the second season (2015) of the ISL, Kerala Blasters retained their core squad but faced challenges in the league stage, finishing sixth out of eight teams. Despite their lower position, they made it to the semi-finals but were eliminated by Chennaiyin FC. The third season (2016) marked a significant improvement for Kerala Blasters, finishing as runners-up after reaching the final for the second time. Led by head coach Steve Coppell, the team displayed strong performances throughout the season and garnered praise for their attacking style of play. Struggles and Rebuilding (2017-2018): Kerala Blasters faced challenges in the following seasons, experiencing managerial changes and inconsistent performances. The team finished sixth in the fourth season (2017-2018) and failed to qualify for the playoffs. Despite the setbacks, Kerala Blasters remained a popular team in the ISL, with loyal support from their fans. Revival and Final Appearances (2018-2019): In the fifth season (2018-2019), Kerala Blasters underwent a revival under the guidance of head coach David James, finishing in the top four and qualifying for the playoffs. They reached the final for the third time but were defeated by ATK in a closely contested match. The season showcased the resilience and determination of the team, signaling a resurgence in their performance. Recent Years (2019-present): Kerala Blasters have continued to compete in the ISL, striving for success and consistency. The team has undergone changes in coaching staff and player roster, aiming to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for the title. Kerala Blasters remain one of the most supported teams in the league, with their passionate fanbase creating an electrifying atmosphere during home matches. Throughout their history, Kerala Blasters FC has played a significant role in popularizing football in Kerala and contributing to the growth of the sport in India. While they continue to chase their first ISL title, their journey and impact on Indian football remain highly regarded.