The
Under the new structure, the league will feature 13 participating teams competing in a total of 163 matches. This season also introduces a shift in governance, as the league moves to a club-led model that grants the participating organizations a greater role in shaping the strategic direction and key decision-making processes of the competition.
League Structure and Playoff Format
The 2026-27 season will see each of the 13 clubs face their opponents twice, once at home and once away during the league stage. The team that finishes at the summit of the standings will be crowned the Shield Winners and officially recognized as the ISL champions, earning a coveted spot in Asian club competition.
Following the conclusion of the league stage, the top six teams will progress to the knockout phase. The eventual winner of this playoff series will be awarded the title of ISL Cup Champion. The participating clubs for the season include Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, Churchill Brothers 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.
Administrative Developments and League Status
The lead-up to the season has seen a notable administrative development regarding Diamond Harbour FC. Despite securing promotion by winning the 2025-26
According to the official league statement, Diamond Harbour FC will be placed at the bottom of the standings and will be ineligible to earn points throughout the season. Furthermore, the club will lose its ISL status for the 2027-28 campaign and will return to the IFL. This decision underscores the league's commitment to its established administrative and financial criteria as it transitions into its new club-led era.
