In a major boost for crisis-hit Indian football, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed on Saturday that the 12th season of the Indian Super League (ISL) will go ahead. The dates for the top-tier league are expected to be announced next week. Following discussions with the AIFF–ISL Coordination Committee and participating clubs, the federation, during its Emergency Committee meeting on Saturday, approved the report submitted by the three-member committee constituted on December 20, 2025.
It is learnt that the AIFF has already chalked out a series of strategic decisions designed to support the financial health of member clubs and ensure the successful execution of the 2025–26 season.
In the interest of protecting club cash flows against potential revenue shortfalls in sponsorship and broadcasting, the AIFF has proposed a one-year moratorium on franchise fees. Clubs have been given the option to defer the ₹1 crore entry fee until June 2026. This measure is intended to provide immediate liquidity to clubs that opt for the moratorium during the current season.
As a one-time special measure, the federation is willing to contribute up to ₹5 crore towards the league’s operational expenses for this season, subject to final approval from the necessary governing bodies of the AIFF.
To finalise the structure of the upcoming season, the AIFF has shared an official Format Preference Form, which clubs must return duly filled, indicating their preferred format, by January 5, 2026.
It was also decided that, to initiate the logistics and organisation of the league, clubs are required to pay an advance of 40% of the operational costs (relative to the chosen format) by January 12, 2026.
Regarding commercial governance and the RFP strategy under the revised structure, the AIFF has reaffirmed its intent that clubs will lead all discussions and negotiations related to commercial matters. The Federation will work jointly with the clubs to prepare a new Request for Proposal (RFP) for a commercial partner and broadcaster. To avoid scheduling delays, the AIFF has proposed that the season proceed as planned while work continues in parallel to refine the RFP, ensuring it is as attractive as possible to potential partners.
Finally, the AIFF will actively engage with the Union Sports Ministry and state governments to seek financial, infrastructural, and logistical support for both the current and future seasons.
Ahead of the new ISL season, defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant resumed training on Saturday following the Christmas break. The practice session at the Salt Lake training ground saw the presence of the entire squad, with Ashish Rai being the only absentee.
City rivals East Bengal are set to return to training on Monday, January 5. Earlier, clubs such as Bengaluru FC had halted practice sessions amid uncertainty surrounding the top-tier league, while several others, including Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters, had temporarily suspended operations.
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