Sunil Chhetri’s experience will come in handy for BFC. | Photo Credit: Bengaluru FC
The Indian Super League begins a new chapter on Saturday, with clubs taking charge of the ISL’s commercial future and the competition returning to a full-fledged home-and-away format.
The shift marks a departure from the ISL’s previous structure. While the All India Football Federation will retain administrative control and oversee key operational aspects, the clubs will hold the commercial rights, giving them a greater stake in shaping the league’s future.
The change brings both opportunity and responsibility. The clubs’ ability to generate revenue and create a compelling match-day experience will have a direct bearing on their financial health.
However, the build-up has been marked by uncertainty, as was the case last year. The announcement of the fixture list was delayed, as was the signing of a new broadcast deal. Jamshedpur FC, owned by Tata Steel, and Diamond Harbour FC both withdrew.
For the 13 clubs that remain, success — both financial and sporting — will depend on what happens on the pitch. Entertaining football and competitive contests will be crucial to attracting new followers and retaining existing ones.
The return to a double round-robin format should help. After a curtailed, single-leg campaign last time, the teams will face each other home and away, restoring the rhythm of a conventional league season. The longer schedule will test squad depth, fitness and consistency while giving coaches more scope for tactical adjustments.
The supporters, meanwhile, will play a crucial role in determining whether the reset succeeds. Despite the uncertainty that surrounded Indian football last season, strong local following helped clubs such as Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC and Bengaluru FC keep interest in the stands.
As the season unfolds, all stakeholders will hope that a sustainable model takes shape. Saturday’s double-header marks the beginning of that test and another attempt by the ISL to establish a stable footing.
Saturday’s fixtures: Bengaluru FC vs. SC Delhi (Bengaluru, 5 p.m.); FC Goa vs. Chennaiyin FC (Margao, 7.30 p.m.).
Published - October 09, 2026 08:18 pm IST