After getting out of the rough patch, ISL is now all set to make its comeback with a whole new development. One of the major events in Indian sports is set to kick off today. A new era of Indian football is starting on February 14 with the match between Mohun Bagan Super Giants and Kerala Blasters. For the first time, fourteen teams will feature in the league, and every team will play one match against each other.
As the ISL is bringing new hope to Indian football, it will be an emotional outing for each and every player.
Here are some key details of the event you should know
Also Read | ISL 2025–26 full squad list: Complete player rosters of all 14 teams
Single round-robin format replaces traditional home-and-away structure
The 12th edition of the Indian Super League officially kicked off on February 14, 2026, and concluded on May 17, 2026. In a major structural shift, the ISL has adopted a single round-robin format for the 2025–26 campaign. Each team plays 13 matches, facing every other side once instead of the usual home-and-away system. There will be no playoffs this season, meaning the club that finishes at the top of the points table after the league phase will be declared champions.
Ninety-one matches are scheduled in a shortened competition window
The revised format results in a total of 91 matches across the season. Fixtures are tightly packed to accommodate the delayed start and administrative adjustments. Matchdays are spread across weekends and select midweek slots to ensure the league concludes within the designated timeline.
Inter Kashi FC headline the participating teams list
Inter Kashi FC are part of the 14-team roster this season, adding further depth to the competition. The curtain-raiser will feature Mohun Bagan Super Giant hosting Kerala Blasters FC, while FC Goa takes on Inter Kashi FC. The opening fixtures were strategically scheduled to generate early momentum and fan engagement across key football markets.
FanCode holds exclusive digital streaming rights
All 91 matches of the season are being streamed live on FanCode. FanCode secured streaming rights for Rs 8.62 crore when the per-match value had fallen from Rs 1.69 crore to Rs 9.5 lakh.
Sony Sports Network expands television coverage
In addition to digital streaming, Sony Sports Network is broadcasting matches on television following a sub-licensing agreement. The move significantly widens accessibility, catering to traditional TV audiences alongside digital consumers.
Also Read | ISL 2025–26: Home grounds of all 14 Indian Super League clubs
AIFF oversees operations following administrative restructuring
The All India Football Federation stepped in to stabilise and organise the competition after delays linked to commercial rights and operational restructuring. The governing body played a central role in finalising fixtures and ensuring the season’s rollout.
Reduced financial framework impacts prize pool and club budgets
The 2025–26 season is being conducted under a trimmed financial model. The prize pool has shrunk from Rs 15.5 crore to around Rs 5 crore. The Shield winners may pocket Rs 3.5 crore; runners-up Rs 1.5 crore.
