AIFF backs club-led model, 2026-27 ISL set for Sep 4

A major administrative crisis in Indian football has been resolved, clearing the way for the 2026-27 Indian Super League season to begin as scheduled. The All India Football Federation has agreed in principle to a two-year, club-led model for the league, a decision backed by the Sports Ministry following a high-level meeting.

The breakthrough came after a meeting on Monday, June 8, in New Delhi, where Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya mediated between the AIFF and representatives from the ISL clubs. The minister directed both parties to form a joint task force to draft a structured plan for the league's future. The clubs' proposal for a temporary, self-regulated commercial model was subsequently accepted over the AIFF's preferred deal with the global sports data firm Genius Sports.

AIFF Deputy Secretary General M. Satyanarayan confirmed the development on Tuesday, June 9, stating that while a final legal agreement is pending, the principle has been approved. A formal announcement is scheduled for June 15, after remaining details are finalized. The 2026-27 season is now set to kick off on September 4.

Under the new interim structure, which will cover the 2026-27 and 2027-28...