ISL 2025-26 to run from February 14 to May 17; double headers on weekends

ISL 2025-26 will not have any playoffs.

The Indian Super League (ISL 2025–26) season finally moved a step closer to reality after a crucial meeting between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and all participating clubs on Tuesday. Importantly, this was the first official interaction since clubs formally agreed to take part in the upcoming campaign. As a result, clarity has now emerged on the league calendar, match format, and the immediate roadmap ahead.

During the meeting, it was confirmed that the Indian Super League will run from February 14 to May 17, ending months of uncertainty. Moreover, clubs were briefed on matchday planning, committee representation, and AIFF’s parallel administrative plans. With venues already confirmed earlier, the federation can now accelerate preparations for a tightly packed season.

ISL 2025-26 to have double headers on weekends

Earlier, all 14 ISL clubs, including debutants Inter Kashi, confirmed their participation. The ISL 2025–26 season will follow a single home-and-away league format, resulting in 91 matches overall.

To manage the compressed calendar, matches will largely be scheduled as double-headers on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Kick-off timings have also been finalised, with games starting at 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM. There will also be matches on Thursday but single ones.

In addition, clubs have recommended their representatives for key bodies, including the Operations & Fixtures Committee, RFQ Committee, Marketing & Digital Committee, and Sponsorship Committee.

Plans ahead for ISL 2025–26 and beyond

Following club confirmations and payment submissions, AIFF detailed its short-term and long-term action plan. First, the federation will issue RFPs for broadcast and commercial partners on January 14 and 15, respectively. The onboarding of partners is targeted for February 5, just days before the season begins.

At the same time, AIFF has already written to the AFC seeking an exemption related to ACL 2 slots. Work on fixtures, operational logistics, and participation agreements has also begun. Notably, a draft long-term governance framework for the Indian Super League is expected to be finalised by January 20.

Financially, the season will operate on a ₹24.26 crore budget, with AIFF contributing ₹9.77 crore upfront. Each club has committed ₹1 crore, while the remaining costs will be managed progressively. Furthermore, AIFF plans to finalise long-term participation agreements and commercial partnerships to stabilise the league beyond 2026.

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