PANAJI
Delta Corp Chairman Jaydev Mody has “registered” his interest in taking over a controlling stake in FC Goa and in comments to 'The Goan' has confirmed that talks are at an advanced stage.
“We are one of the people… We have registered our interest and very soon it will be known,” Mody told 'The Goan'. He said that while he couldn’t disclose the quantum of the exchange that is to take place for a controlling stake, "football is something they are interested in".
The boss of Delta Corp - the largest and only listed company within the gaming and hospitality segment in India, is expected to take over the FC Goa stakes from Shrinivas Dempo and Dattaraj Salgaocar, who own 35 per cent each. Mody said that details would be announced once the deal was inked and formalised.
If the deal goes through, FC Goa could start afresh with charges levied against them, minus 15 points and a fine of 15 crores, expected to be reduced or abolished. Delta Corp’s largest casinos operate in the waters of the River Mandovi with Deltin Royale, Casino Royale operating and and the latest Royale Flotel expected to commence business soon. The news has seen mixed reactions on social media in Goa.
However, Dempo on Saturday chose to remain tight-lipped over the development. "I wish to offer no comment. We have filed an appeal before the committee (ISL regulatory committee) on various penalties imposed on us. The order is expected on July 22," Dempo was quoted as saying by PTI.
FC Goa, the runners-up of the second edition of Indian Super League (ISL), had run into troubles after they had boycotted the prize distribution ceremony following their verbal duel with Chennaiyin FC captain Elano Blumer during the final match of the season, held last year on December 20. Subsequently, FC Goa were slapped a Rs 11 crore fine and the co-owners Dempo and Salgaocar were banned from participating in ISL for next two and three seasons, respectively. They were also docked 15 points for the ISL 3.
