Indian Super League 2026-27 Season Set to Kick Off with Exciting Changes
Overview of the Upcoming Season
The 2026-27 season of the Indian Super League (ISL) is scheduled to commence on October 10 and will continue until May 2027. This season will reintroduce a traditional home-and-away format, following a new club-led model, as stated in a recent announcement. The competition will span eight months and feature a total of 163 matches, with 13 teams participating in a round-robin format. The team that finishes first in the league standings will be recognized as the Shield Winners, earning the title of official ISL champions and a spot in Asian competitions. Additionally, the playoffs will return, allowing the top six teams to vie for the ISL Cup Champions title.
The anticipation for the 2026-27 Indian Super League is building, with excitement growing as the new season approaches. Can you hear the buzz? #ISL13
New Club-Led Model and Promotion Details
According to the announcement, the league will adhere to its promotion-and-relegation principle. Consequently, Diamond Harbour FC will not be eligible to earn points this season and will automatically occupy the last position in the standings. They will lose their ISL status for the 2027-28 season and will instead compete in the Indian Football League (IFL).
The new club-led model aims to empower teams in decision-making and strategic direction, fostering a more competitive football calendar, increased investment in local talent, and a robust ecosystem for the sport's growth.
Teams Participating in ISL 2026-27
The teams set to compete this season include:
- Bengaluru FC
- Chennaiyin FC
- Churchill Brothers FC
- East Bengal FC
- FC Goa
- Inter Kashi FC
- Kerala Blasters FC
- Mohun Bagan Super Giant
- Mumbai City FC
- NorthEast United FC
- Odisha FC
- Punjab FC
- Sporting Club Delhi
Churchill Brothers' participation is still pending regulatory approvals. Meanwhile, Diamond Harbour FC, who secured promotion by winning the 2025-26 Indian Football League title, will not participate in the ISL this season due to their failure to meet the administrative fee requirement for their promoted position.
The 2026-27 season marks a significant transition for the ISL, with structural changes including the reinstatement of playoffs and a renewed emphasis on the traditional league format.