AIFF Reveals Club Licensing Outcomes for 2026-27 Football Season

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has released the club licensing results for the 2026-27 season. Several clubs, including NorthEast United FC and East Bengal FC, received licenses with sanctions, while others like Sporting Club Delhi and Odisha FC faced rejections. The licensing system is essential for maintaining the standards of football clubs in India, allowing them to compete in national and AFC competitions. Clubs that were denied licenses can appeal or seek exemptions. Read on for more details about the licensing outcomes and their implications for Indian football.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2026, 22:31 IST

AIFF Club Licensing Results for 2026-27

On Sunday, May 17, the Club Licensing Committee - First Instance Body (CLC-FIB) of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) convened to finalize the club licensing decisions for the ICLS Premier 1 for the 2026-27 season. The outcomes are as follows:

### Licenses Granted with Sanctions:

1. NorthEast United FC

2. East Bengal FC

3. Jamshedpur FC

4. Mumbai City FC

5. Bengaluru FC

6. FC Goa

7. Punjab FC

According to the AIFF, these clubs have been granted licenses with certain sanctions.

### Licenses Rejected:

1. Sporting Club Delhi

2. Odisha FC

3. Mohun Bagan Super Giant

4. Chennaiyin FC

5. Kerala Blasters FC

6. Mohammedan Sporting Club

7. Inter Kashi

Clubs that received a rejection have the option to appeal the decision or seek an exemption to compete in the national club competition, as outlined in the licensing regulations, according to a press release from the AIFF.

Understanding the Indian Club Licensing System

The Indian Club Licensing System plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality, professionalism, and infrastructure of football clubs across the nation. This annual process allows clubs to obtain the necessary licenses to participate in both AFC and national club competitions for each season.

Licenses are divided into two categories: 'Premier 1' for clubs in the Indian Super League and 'Premier 2' for those in the Indian Football League.