The 2025–26 season of the Indian Super League (ISL) is set to be conducted in two or three centralised venues, with clubs and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) yet to arrive at a final roadmap regarding finances, broadcast rights and continental qualification. The key developments emerged from a meeting held on Sunday between AIFF officials and representatives of the ISL clubs.
Although AIFF committee member and IFA secretary Anirban Dutta had earlier indicated that the upcoming season could begin on February 5, no definitive start date was finalised. The uncertainty stems from unresolved issues surrounding the league’s operational structure, particularly in the absence of a confirmed commercial partner following the expiry of the Master Rights Agreement with Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL).
During the meeting, clubs were briefed on a proposal that envisages a truncated season to be held in two or three centralised venues instead of the traditional home-and-away format. This move is being considered due to time constraints and the need to align the calendar with Asian Football Confederation (AFC) regulations.
However, the clubs raised several concerns, chief among them being funding. With no commercial partner currently in place, clubs sought clarity on whether the AIFF would fully underwrite the league’s expenses if required. The federation was also asked to clarify its position on revenue sharing, broadcast arrangements and the overall financial sustainability of the proposed model.
Another major point of discussion was India’s participation in AFC club competitions. Under current AFC regulations, domestic leagues must feature a minimum number of matches and run for a specified duration to remain eligible for continental slots. With the proposed centralised format expected to limit teams to around 15 matches, clubs expressed concerns over whether India would retain its two AFC Champions League 2 slots.
The AIFF has indicated that it will seek special consideration from the AFC, citing extraordinary circumstances. However, no formal assurance has yet been received. Clubs have also asked for clarity on whether promotion and relegation will be implemented this season, and how relegated teams would be compensated if the format changes.
Importantly, East Bengal were represented in the meeting for the first time, marking a notable development in ongoing discussions. Despite this, no final decision was taken. It was agreed that further clarifications from the AFC are necessary before any binding commitments are made.
As a result, the meeting scheduled for the following day has been cancelled. The clubs and the federation will reconvene once more information is available, particularly regarding continental eligibility, commercial rights and revenue distribution.
With time running out and the proposed February start date fast approaching, stakeholders remain hopeful that clarity will emerge soon. For now, the future of the 2025–26 ISL season remains in a state of careful negotiation, with several key questions still awaiting answers.
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