Indian Super League opens new season with 13 clubs and home-and-away schedule

The ISL returns on Saturday to a full double round-robin format, while its clubs take control of the competition’s commercial rights.

The All India Football Federation will retain administrative control and oversight of key operational matters, while the clubs hold the commercial rights. The federation and league representatives announced the new arrangement in July. It gives clubs a larger role in shaping the competition, while making their revenue generation and match-day experience central to the league’s financial prospects.

Preparations were marked by delays in announcing the fixture list and securing a broadcast agreement. Jamshedpur FC and Diamond Harbour FC withdrew, leaving 13 teams in the season. For those remaining, sporting results will also affect their financial prospects as the league seeks to attract new viewers and retain existing supporters.

After a curtailed season in which teams met only once, the clubs will again play each other home and away. The longer schedule will test squad depth, fitness and consistency, while giving coaches more opportunities to adjust tactics.

Strong local support helped clubs such as Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC and Bengaluru FC sustain interest in the stands during a period of uncertainty in Indian football. Saturday’s opening double-header will be an early test of whether the revised model can give the league a more stable footing.