 "AIFF takes major step in preparing ISL 2025-26 schedule days after season start confirmation")
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has taken an important step towards finalising the schedule for the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season, which is set to begin on February 14. With the league returning after a period of uncertainty, the AIFF has now asked clubs to submit key details to help speed up preparations.
In a letter sent to all ISL clubs, the AIFF requested them to confirm the venues where they plan to host their home matches. The federation has asked clubs to send these details by Monday noon, January 12, so that work on the match schedule and other arrangements can begin.
“We would like to reiterate the AIFF’s proposal to organise the 2025-26 season of the ISL with co-operation from the participating clubs. In order to assist AIFF finalise broadcast partners, commercial rights partners and the fixtures for the upcoming season, we request you to confirm the details of the venue that you will play your home matches at, not later than 12 noon on 12 January 2026,” the AIFF said in the letter quoted by PTI.
Earlier this week, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya officially announced that the ISL would restart from February 14 after being put on hold due to the absence of a commercial partner. All 14 clubs are expected to take part in the season, which will be played in a home-and-away format and feature a total of 91 matches.
AIFF explains why venue details are needed
The AIFF explained that confirmation of venues is crucial to finalising broadcast and commercial rights partners, as well as preparing the match fixtures. Once venue details and the required deposit are received, the federation will share draft documents related to ISL governance, invite tenders for broadcast and commercial rights, and begin work on fixtures and participation agreements.
The federation also said it will coordinate with local authorities at the match venues to ensure smooth organisation of the season. In addition, AIFF plans to approach the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to seek necessary exemptions related to Champions League 2 slots. The AIFF stated that the proposed budget for the ISL 2026 season is around Rs 24.26 crore.
“AIFF will also take best efforts to co-ordinate with competent authorities at venue (s), to enable seamless organisation of the upcoming season of the ISL. AIFF is also committed to liaising with the Asian Football Confederation and seeking the necessary exemptions for the upcoming season,” the letter added.
“The 2025-26 season of the ISL is proposed to be held on a total budget of INR Twenty Four Crores Twenty Six Lakhs Seventy Four Thousand (INR 24,26,74,000/-) with an initial contribution of INR Nine Crores Seventy Seven Lakh Forty Thousand (INR 9,77,40,000/-) from the AIFF and a contribution of INR One Crore (INR 1,00,00,000/-) each from the participating clubs.”
“We would like to reassure you that the AIFF is in parallel taking all necessary steps to put the proposal into effect, in letter and spirit.” The AIFF had earlier said that it’s willing to accept the participation fee of Rs 1 crore per club in instalments up to June 2026, if the clubs are not able to pay immediately.
(With agency inputs)
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