AIFF Proposes New ISL Model League Likely to Begin Feb 5

The Indian Super League stands at a critical crossroads as uncertainty over its operational framework threatens to delay yet another season. With the expiry of the master rights agreement between the league’s commercial partner and the national federation, Indian football has entered a phase of intense negotiations aimed at safeguarding the future of its premier competition.

In response to the crisis, the All India Football Federation has placed a bold proposal on the table, seeking to fundamentally restructure how the ISL is governed, owned and operated. The objective, according to federation officials, is not only to ensure the league begins as soon as possible but also to align its structure with constitutional and regulatory mandates.

The proposed changes could redefine Indian club football for decades to come. From federation ownership to new revenue-sharing mechanisms and revised league calendars, the plan promises stability while also raising questions among clubs about financial sustainability, competitive balance and long-term growth.

AIFF Proposal to Own and Operate ISL

Under the new proposal, the Indian Super League would be owned and operated by the AIFF for the next 20 seasons. This marks a significant departure from the earlier model where a commercial partner played a central role in managing league operations.

The federation has stated that the move is designed to bring the league in line with the recently adopted constitution, which mandates greater administrative control by the national governing body. Officials have emphasised that the guiding principles behind the proposal are speed, compliance and continuity.

Why the ISL 2025-26 Season Is Delayed

The ISL 2025-26 season has not begun as scheduled due to the expiration of the Master Rights Agreement between the AIFF and its commercial partner. With the agreement ending in early December, operational clarity became a pressing concern.

This uncertainty prompted urgent discussions between the federation and the clubs, as stakeholders sought assurances on scheduling, finances and governance. Without a clear framework in place, launching the season became increasingly difficult.

Meetings With ISL Clubs and Stakeholders

The AIFF convened meetings with all participating ISL clubs to present its long-term vision and gather feedback. Representatives from all 14 clubs attended, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the shared interest in resolving the impasse.

Federation officials described the discussions as largely positive, noting that clubs were receptive to the need for structural reform, even as they sought time to deliberate on specific financial and operational aspects.

New League Cycle and Calendar Changes

One of the cornerstones of the proposed reform is a new league cycle starting from the 2026-27 season. Under this system, the ISL would run annually from June 1 to May 31, aligning Indian football with global and Asian competition calendars.

The revised calendar would also incorporate promotion and relegation, in accordance with Asian Football Confederation regulations. This marks a significant step toward integrating the ISL more closely with the broader domestic football pyramid.

Central Operational Budget Explained

The first season under the new framework would operate with a central operational budget of Rs 70 crore. This fund would cover all major expenses, including prize money and administrative costs.

Clubs would be required to pay a standard participation fee of Rs 1 crore per year to the federation. Any savings from the central budget would be redistributed among stakeholders, excluding the commercial partner.

Revenue Sharing and Commercial Partner Role

Under the proposed model, the federation would retain 10 percent of the league’s revenue, while 30 percent would be earmarked for a potential commercial partner. The remaining share would be distributed among clubs once the league breaks even.

A commercial partner would need to make a significant financial commitment to acquire a stake in the revenue pool, with ongoing contributions linked to net league revenue in subsequent seasons.

What Clubs Stand to Gain

Once total league revenue reaches Rs 96 crore, 60 percent of earnings would be reserved for clubs. Half of this amount would be distributed equally, ensuring baseline financial stability for all teams.

An additional share would be allocated based on investment levels and length of participation, rewarding clubs that have consistently supported the league over multiple seasons.

Incentives Based on Years of Participation

Clubs with more than eight years of participation would receive up to one percent of fixed revenue share. Those with three to eight years would earn up to 0.5 percent, while newer clubs would receive a smaller but structured share.

This tiered approach aims to balance fairness with recognition of long-term commitment, while also protecting investments even in cases of relegation.

ISL 2025-26 Format Still Under Discussion

While February 5 has been tentatively identified as the start date for the upcoming season, the competition format remains undecided. The AIFF has presented multiple models to the clubs.

Options include a two-conference system played at centralised venues or a Swiss-style format featuring home and away fixtures. Clubs remain divided, with cost considerations playing a major role in their preferences.

Impact on Asian Competition Qualification

The federation is hopeful that, even with a delayed start, the season can accommodate close to 190 matches. In such a scenario, the AIFF plans to approach the AFC for special consideration regarding continental qualification.

The goal is to ensure that the ISL champion remains eligible for Asian competitions, preserving the league’s international relevance.

Future Meetings and Key Decisions Ahead

Additional meetings have been scheduled to finalise operational details, including salary caps, expenditure limits and long-term investment protection mechanisms.

Once consensus is reached, the proposed framework will require ratification at the AIFF Annual General Meeting, marking the final step before implementation.

A Defining Moment for Indian Football

The proposed ISL model represents one of the most significant shifts in Indian football governance in recent years. If implemented effectively, it could provide long-term stability and align the league more closely with global standards.

However, its success will depend on cooperation between the federation, clubs and commercial partners. As the countdown to February 5 continues, Indian football waits to see whether this ambitious plan can usher in a new era for the sport.

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