Kolkata: The Indian Super League (ISL) is finally set to return, with the new season kicking off on February 14, 2025. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya confirmed the much-awaited announcement on Monday evening, putting an end to months of uncertainty around Indian football.
Government, AIFF, and Clubs join hands
Speaking after a crucial meeting, Mandaviya stated that the restart of the ISL was made possible through the collective efforts of the government, the All India Football Federation (AIFF), and club representatives. “Due to a court dispute, there was a lot of uncertainty around the Indian Super League. Today, the government, AIFF, and representatives of all 14 clubs have decided to restart the league,” he said.
According to the announcement, all 14 ISL clubs are expected to participate this season. However, NorthEast United FC CEO Mandar Tamhane clarified that while 10 clubs have already confirmed participation.
Match Format designed to support clubs
Tamhane also confirmed that the league format has been finalised. Teams will play each other in single-legged home and away fixtures. This means some clubs will play six home matches, while others will play seven. According to Tamhane, this structure is the most practical solution from a cost and sustainability point of view, instead of hosting the entire tournament at a centralised venue.
He pointed out that clubs like Kerala Blasters FC and Bengaluru FC depend heavily on ticket sales from home matches. In addition, several clubs have strong local sponsors who may have pulled out if there were no home games. The chosen format, he said, balances finances and fan engagement across the league.
AIFF steps in with financial support
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey revealed that a ₹25 crore central pool has been created solely to conduct the ISL. “Ten percent of this fund will come from AIFF, while 30 percent was expected from a commercial partner. Since we don’t have one yet, AIFF will cover that share as well,” Chaubey explained.
Overall, the AIFF will contribute ₹14 crore towards the ISL and an additional ₹3.2 crore for the I-League, until a new commercial partner is secured.
I-League also set for February restart
Alongside the ISL, the I-League, featuring 11 teams, is also expected to resume in February. Finding a long-term commercial partner remains the next big challenge for AIFF, as it looks to stabilise both leagues and plan effectively for the next season.
End of a Long and Uncertain Phase
The ISL’s return comes after nearly nine months of disruption, following the expiry of the Master Rights Agreement between AIFF and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) in December. With negotiations failing to reach a breakthrough, FSDL had put the league on hold in July. AIFF later floated a fresh tender for commercial rights but did not receive any bids. Reports suggested that the valuation quoted was too high for interested parties to move forward.
During this period, several ISL clubs were forced to pause first-team operations. Sponsorship deals suffered, planning became impossible, and the overall growth of Indian football took a major hit.
A Crucial Step for Indian Football’s Growth
The February restart of the ISL is more than just a league returning to action. It is a vital step for Indian football’s development, giving players competitive matches, clubs financial stability, and fans across the country a reason to reconnect with the game.
With clearer planning, government support, and a workable format, the ISL now has a chance to rebuild momentum and continue playing a key role in shaping the future of football in India.
