In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through Indian football, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially removed the Indian Super League (ISL) from its 2025-26 domestic calendar. The decision, confirmed late Tuesday night, has left the future of India’s most high-profile football league hanging in uncertainty.
The announcement comes amid ongoing disputes between AIFF and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the commercial partner that runs ISL. Key issues reportedly include calendar clashes, lack of promotion-relegation integration with the I-League, and questions about the ISL’s long-term sustainability and alignment with AFC (Asian Football Confederation) guidelines.
AIFF’s Statement
The AIFF stated that the move was taken to “restructure Indian football in accordance with global best practices and ensure a unified, merit-based league system.” Without naming ISL or FSDL, the statement hinted at “the need to prioritize sporting merit, inclusivity, and sustainability” in its future league models.
Sources within the AIFF suggest that the decision followed a breakdown in talks over merging ISL with the I-League to create a single top-tier national competition. “The ISL’s closed model was unsustainable in the long term and created two parallel systems,” an official told reporters under the condition of anonymity.
FSDL Reacts
FSDL, the Reliance-backed entity that launched ISL in 2014 with much fanfare and Bollywood support, expressed “deep disappointment” over the AIFF’s move. In a strongly worded response, it accused the federation of undermining years of investment and growth.
“ISL has built the foundation for modern football in India — from grassroots development to international recognition,” said an FSDL spokesperson. “We are evaluating all legal and commercial options to protect our stakeholders and the future of Indian football.”
Clubs and Players Caught in the Crossfire
Top ISL clubs like Mumbai City FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Bengaluru FC, and Kerala Blasters now face an existential dilemma. With no confirmed league to play in next season, their operations, sponsorships, and player contracts are in jeopardy.
Players, both domestic and foreign, took to social media to express confusion and concern. “What happens to our careers now?” asked one prominent Indian midfielder. “We’ve built our lives around the ISL.”
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AFC and FIFA Watching Closely
With AFC Champions League and AFC Cup slots linked to domestic league standings, the AIFF’s decision may trigger scrutiny from the Asian Football Confederation and FIFA. India risks sanctions if the transition away from ISL is not managed smoothly or transparently.
What’s Next?
While the AIFF has promised to unveil a new league structure by August, insiders suggest it may prioritize the I-League and introduce promotion-relegation across divisions. There are also talks of a new national league integrating ISL and I-League clubs, but such a plan faces major logistical and legal hurdles.
For now, Indian football stands at a crossroads. The removal of ISL from the 2025-26 calendar may mark the end of a flashy but fractured era — or the beginning of a more unified and sustainable future.
