Kerala Blasters and Odisha FC Confirm Participation in Upcoming ISL Season

Kerala Blasters and Odisha FC have both confirmed their participation in the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL), which is scheduled to start on February 14, 2026. Kerala Blasters expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for their support, while Odisha FC reiterated its commitment to the growth of Indian football. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that all 14 clubs will participate in this season's league, highlighting the importance of football development in the country. The All India Football Federation's Emergency Committee has also played a crucial role in finalizing the league's schedule.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 17:28 IST

Kerala Blasters Announces ISL Participation

Kerala Blasters has officially announced its involvement in the Indian Super League (ISL), which is set to commence in February 2026. The club expressed gratitude towards the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for their timely intervention and mediation through a statement on their X account. The announcement highlighted that the decision followed extensive discussions with the All India Football Federation and other relevant stakeholders.

The club emphasized its commitment to safeguarding the present and collaborating with all parties to ensure a bright future for Indian football. They acknowledged that there are many questions and concerns, and they are actively working to clarify these issues. The statement noted, 'Indian football is undergoing significant changes and will face new economic, regulatory, and sporting realities.'

Furthermore, the club assured fans that more information would be shared through appropriate channels once their approach is finalized and clarity on certain matters is achieved. They requested continued support and patience from their supporters.

Odisha FC Joins the ISL

On the same day, Odisha Football Club (OFC) confirmed its participation in the upcoming ISL season. The club shared its support for the Government of India's goal of ensuring continuity, stability, and long-term growth in Indian football through an official statement on Instagram.

ISL Start Date Announced by Sports Minister

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya previously announced that the Indian Super League will kick off on February 14. He confirmed that all 14 clubs have agreed to participate in this season's league. Mandaviya stated, 'We have decided that the ISL will start on February 14, Saturday, and all of our clubs will participate in it.'

He further noted the progress of football in the country, emphasizing that the league helps in developing good players and aims to enhance the sport's stature in India.

AIFF Committee's Involvement

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) previously convened an Emergency Committee meeting to discuss the ISL's schedule. The committee reviewed a report from the AIFF-ISL Coordination Committee, which was established on December 20, 2025, following discussions at the AIFF Executive Committee meeting and the Annual General Meeting. The Coordination Committee was tasked with submitting its findings to the AIFF Secretariat by January 2, which it successfully completed. The AIFF Emergency Committee acknowledged the report and recommended that the league be conducted.