AIFF Confirms ISL 2025-26 Despite Uncertainty; Super Cup Brought Forward

Add as a preferred source on Google

Despite the uncertainty looming over Indian football's commercial structure, All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Kalyan Chaubey has assured that the Indian Super League (ISL) will take place this year.

His comments come amid a backdrop of financial strain and stalled negotiations between the AIFF and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the league's commercial partner.

"The ISL will be held this year. There is no doubt about that," said Chaubey to the press after a recent meeting with ISL club representatives. However, he made it clear that the AIFF would not interfere in internal club matters, including salaries and payments. "At the same time, it's the club's decision to pay their players or staff. We can't intervene - that's how all top leagues operate."

This firm stance follows the expiration of the Master Rights Agreement between the AIFF and FSDL, due to lapse in December. With the Supreme Court currently reviewing the AIFF's amended constitution and barring any new commercial agreements, revenue streams for clubs have dried up. This financial uncertainty has led several ISL clubs-including Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, and Odisha FC-to temporarily suspend their operations.

In a proactive move, the AIFF has decided to shift the Super Cup to fill the gap left by the delayed ISL. Scheduled for the September to December window, the Super Cup will now act as the season opener.

"We are anticipating the Super Cup to take place in the second or third week of September. Some teams need six to eight weeks to complete their preparations and bring back players. In our next meeting, we'll announce the kick-off date," Chaubey added.

The 2025 Super Cup will also carry international stakes. The tournament winner will earn a place in the AFC Champions League Two preliminary round, offering a valuable continental platform. The Super Cup, introduced in 2018 to replace the Federation Cup, has mostly been held in Bhubaneswar-with the 2023 edition hosted in Kerala. Last season, FC Goa lifted the trophy after beating Jamshedpur FC in the final.

As the league navigates turbulent waters, the AIFF's decision provides clarity, if not full certainty, for clubs and fans alike.