The
A senior official from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed the new timeline, stating, "The ISL is likely to start only in October after the FIFA window." The league will proceed with 13 teams, as Diamond Harbour's inability to pay has left the total number of participating clubs reduced from the anticipated 14.
Participation Fee Issues and Team Changes
All clubs were required to submit their second installment of the total Rs 1.1 crore participation fee by August 14. However, the deadline was extended specifically for Diamond Harbour until Wednesday. In contrast,
AIFF Addresses Financial Claims
In a separate development, the AIFF has publicly refuted what it describes as "incorrect claims" regarding its financial decisions, particularly concerning its withdrawal from the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. The federation emphasized that this decision was not linked to any financial penalties, countering circulating rumors about its fiscal health.
Last week, India opted out of the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup to prioritize a high-profile friendly match against Brazil, scheduled for October 3 in Kolkata. The AIFF stated that this match represents a significant opportunity for Indian football and the national team, asserting that it was arranged through proper channels and should not be mischaracterized.
The federation expressed its commitment to transparency, urging that any statements regarding its finances should be based on verified information. It warned that the dissemination of false claims could harm India's reputation both domestically and internationally, and indicated that legal action may be pursued against those who continue to spread misinformation.
