The Indian Super League (ISL) is set to return to its traditional home-and-away format for the 2026-27 season, marking a significant shift back to the league's standard structure. Following a previous campaign that was restricted to a shortened, single-leg format due to administrative and commercial delays, the upcoming season will span eight months, beginning on October 10 and concluding in May 2027.
The league will feature a total of 163 matches, maintaining the competitive intensity that defines the tournament. At the conclusion of the league stage, the team finishing at the top of the standings will be awarded the Shield and secure a qualification spot for Asian competition. Furthermore, the play-off system will be reinstated, with the top six clubs advancing to compete for the ISL Cup.
League Structure and Club Participation
Thirteen teams are slated to participate in the 2026-27 ISL season. The lineup includes Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, East Bengal FC, FC Goa, Inter Kashi FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Mumbai City FC, NorthEast United FC, Odisha FC, Punjab FC, and Sporting Club Delhi. Churchill Brothers FC is also included in the list, though their participation remains subject to the club meeting all necessary regulatory requirements.
The composition of the league saw a notable change as Diamond Harbour FC, who earned promotion after winning the 2025-26 Indian Football League title, declined their spot after failing to meet the required administrative fee. Meanwhile, the Indian Women’s League (IWL) is also preparing for its new season, which is scheduled to kick off on October 16. The IWL will feature eight clubs, including newcomers HOPS FC and Juba Sangha FC, who earned promotion to the top tier.
Expansion and Future Coaching Standards
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has outlined a clear growth trajectory for the women's game, aiming to expand the IWL to 10 teams by the 2028-29 season and 12 teams by 2032. The federation’s objective is to host approximately 90 matches per season to enhance competitive exposure for players and bolster the national football ecosystem.
In addition to expansion, the AIFF has introduced stricter professional standards for the future. Starting from the 2027-28 season, all IWL head coaches will be required to hold an AFC A Licence. The IWL-2 competition is also set to commence on October 23, with 20 teams divided into four groups. The top performers from this stage will advance to a six-team final round beginning on November 25.
