Kickoff for the 2026-27 Football Season by Reliance Foundation

The Reliance Foundation has officially launched its 2026-27 football season, integrating the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) and Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS). With over 5,500 matches scheduled, this initiative aims to provide young footballers with competitive opportunities and a clear pathway to professional football. Notable players like Sandesh Jhingan emphasize the importance of these leagues in developing talent. The RFDL and RFYS will cater to various age groups, ensuring a robust grassroots framework for the sport in India. Read on to learn more about the exciting developments in Indian football.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 28, 2026, 15:14 IST

Reliance Foundation Unveils 2026-27 Football Season

On Wednesday, the Reliance Foundation announced the commencement of its 2026–27 football season, which integrates the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL), India's leading Under-21 club competition, alongside the Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS), a grassroots initiative for both boys and girls. The RFDL is set to begin in Mumbai on October 24, followed by the RFYS in Shillong on October 28. This season will see 54 teams in the RFDL and over 500 teams in the RFYS, resulting in more than 5,500 matches, thus providing ample competitive opportunities for young footballers nationwide. The leagues create a clear progression path: players start in the U8–U12 league, advance through U14-U18, and finally reach the U21 development league, which serves as a crucial link to senior national and club football, as stated in a press release.

Insights from Team India Player Sandesh Jhingan

Sandesh Jhingan, a player for Team India, emphasized the significance of competitions like the RFDL and RFYS in nurturing young football talent. He noted that these platforms offer players essential game time, the chance to face various teams, and exposure to a professional environment from an early age. Such experiences are vital for bridging the gap between youth and senior football, preparing players for higher levels. Jhingan expressed his best wishes to all participants, encouraging them to enjoy the game, continue learning, remain humble, and always give their best on the field.

The Reliance Foundation Development League Overview

Now entering its sixth season, the RFDL offers a competitive arena for Under-21 players aiming to transition to senior club and national football. A total of 54 youth teams, including Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, Punjab FC, and Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC), will compete through nine regional qualifiers, leading to zonal and national stages, culminating in an expanded National Championship. The league kicks off in Mumbai on October 24, 2026, with matches scheduled across various regions in phases. The pathway has already shown success, with over 250 players from RFDL advancing to compete in the ISL, IFL, I-League 2, and I-League 3. Notably, in September 2026, India qualified for the AFC U20 Asian Cup for the first time in two decades, with 22 out of 23 squad members having participated in the RFDL.

Grassroots Development Through RFYS

Entering its ninth season, RFYS offers structured football competitions for young players, catering to both boys and girls across various age groups. More than 500 teams will compete across 11 centers in six categories: Under-14, Under-16, and Under-18 for both genders. The season, which kicks off in Shillong on October 28, 2026, plans for over 2,220 matches, with additional centers launching in phases throughout November and December. By providing regular match exposure and structured competition, RFYS aids young players in skill development, confidence building, and progression through the football development pathway.

RFYS U8–U12: Laying the Groundwork

The RFYS U8–U12 league extends the pathway to younger children, introducing them to organized football and competitive play early on. The league operates across 13 centers, with nine already active and over 1,490 matches played since its inception in late August 2026. Collectively, these three platforms foster a connected football ecosystem, from introducing children to the sport to nurturing young talent and creating pathways toward professional football.