- By Samannay Sen
- Wed, 10 Jun 2026 07:33 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The announcement comes at a crucial time for Indian football after months of uncertainty surrounding the country's premier club competition. This will be perfect news for fans who were eagerly waiting for the tournament to return to its usual window. Satyanarayan also enlightened that the Durand Cup, which marks the beginning of the football season in India, will also get underway later this month.
The dates for the Durand Cup 2026 have been listed from 25 June to 25 July. The tournament will once again serve as the curtain-raiser for the domestic season.
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A lot of discussions were going on regarding the format with ISL clubs. Hence, AIFF has given a green signal to the teams that they have accepted a club-led model for the next two seasons. The governing body and club representatives in New Delhi had an important meeting that decided the outcome of Indian football’s biggest event.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya presided over the meeting in the national capital and agreed to the club-led model. ISL 2026-27 will commence on September 4, marking its return to a full-length seven-month campaign after the previous season was shortened due to administrative and commercial uncertainties.
AIFF Official Statement
AIFF Acting Secretary General M. Satyanarayan confirmed that the federation has shared a tentative calendar with stakeholders and is working towards ensuring a smooth season across all competitions.
Speaking on the upcoming season, Satyanarayan indicated that the federation's priority is to provide clubs, players, and organizers with adequate planning time while maintaining alignment with international football windows. The final announcement is set to be made on June 15th. Another official, however, said that the AIFF will still own and operate the ISL. He added that the AIFF will also include London-based data and technology firm Genius Sports in the discussions.
Satyanarayan told PTI, “We have agreed in principle to the proposal made by the ISL clubs and we have told this to the Sports Minister. The sports ministry also said it’s okay. So, we will make a formal announcement on June 15. We also have to see how it will work legally. So, there is no final agreement as of now. We have to work on some details and iron them out. That will happen in the next three to four days.”
“The kick-off for ISL is finalised; it will begin on September 4. Durand Cup will be between June 25 and July 25,” he added.
Key Dates in AIFF's Tentative 2026-27 Calendar
Durand Cup: 25 June to 25 July
ISL: 4th September to April
The announcement follows recent developments that cleared the path for the ISL's continuation. Following discussions involving the AIFF, club representatives and the Union Sports Ministry, stakeholders agreed on a framework that allows the league to proceed from the 2026-27 season onward.