Indian Super League 2025-26 Season Postponed Amid Legal Dispute

Supreme Court's Ruling Halts ISL Negotiations

The commencement of the 2025-26 season for the Indian Super League (ISL) has been indefinitely delayed following a directive from the Supreme Court of India. The court has instructed the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to refrain from negotiating the Master Agreement Rights (MRA) with Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) until it resolves the ongoing issues regarding the draft constitution.

In 2022, FSDL, along with various state football associations, contested the final draft constitution established by a Committee of Administrators (CoA).

An email obtained by KhelNow indicates that FSDL has informed ISL clubs about the challenges of organizing the tournament without a definitive contractual agreement. The MRA serves as a legal contract between the tournament organizers and the participating clubs, with the current agreement set to expire on December 8, 2025.

Understanding the Core Issues

A total of 22 objections have been raised, primarily concerning the rights associated with the football league. FSDL contends that the draft constitution violates its rights under the 2010 Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with AIFF, as it allows AIFF to assume control over the premier football league, a privilege that was originally granted to FSDL.

FSDL has suggested a transition from the current model to one based on profit-and-loss sharing, alongside the establishment of a new holding company aimed at commercializing the ISL. Under FSDL's proposed framework, ISL clubs would collectively own 60% of the shares, while FSDL would hold 26% and AIFF would retain 14%.

Additionally, a clause in the draft constitution presented to the Supreme Court stipulates that the top division league will be directly owned, operated, and managed by AIFF, adhering to promotion and relegation rules and fulfilling all AFC requirements to secure a direct entry into the Asian Champions League. This could potentially relegate ISL from its status as the country's premier league.

Impact on Clubs and Future Decisions

Previously, several clubs including FC Goa, Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, Odisha FC, Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City, and Hyderabad FC/FC Delhi withdrew from the Durand Cup 2025, citing uncertainties surrounding the ISL season and the associated financial repercussions. The Supreme Court is anticipated to announce its decision on July 14, 2025.