The Supreme Court has given its approval for the start of the 2025–26 men’s football season in India. It allows the new season to kick off with the Super Cup and opens the way for bids in the Indian Super League (ISL). The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has also been directed to begin the process of selecting a commercial partner to manage the ISL.
The order came on Tuesday (Sep 2, 2025) from a bench of Justices P. S. Narasimha and J. B. Pardiwala, under the leadership of Justice L. Nageswara Rao. The court asked AIFF to take steps without delay and to coordinate with Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), which currently runs the ISL. The court also stressed the need for a transparent and efficient process.
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey called the ruling a major step forward. He said, “This order is the first step to ending the worries of players, staff, and their families and to getting the season started.” His words reflect the relief felt across the Indian football community, which has been waiting for clarity on when the new season would begin.
Industry leaders also welcomed the order. Ravi Puskur, CEO of FC Goa, described it as a positive signal for the future of Indian football. He said it shows progress for all stakeholders, including players, clubs, and fans. North East United’s CEO Mandar Tamhane also expressed hope, saying they are looking forward to working with both the Supreme Court and the AIFF to create a constructive way forward.
FSDL, which is part of the Reliance Group, has been running the ISL since it began. The company also welcomed the decision and said it would continue to work with AIFF to grow football in India. A joint statement from FSDL noted that the process is a significant step in strengthening the sport and in promoting long-term growth across the country.
The court’s decision comes at a critical time. FSDL’s earlier agreement with AIFF had ended in December 2025, and uncertainty had delayed preparations for the new season. A letter from senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan had also pointed out the confusion and its impact on clubs and thousands of players. The court recognized that continuing uncertainty could harm the sport and needed a quick resolution.
The judges have now asked AIFF to announce official dates soon. The season will begin with the Super Cup, which will act as the curtain-raiser, followed by the ISL. The Supreme Court also asked AIFF to make sure that the selection of the commercial partner is done openly, with fair competition and transparency.
The interim order allows football planning to move ahead. The bench has also scheduled the next hearing for August 25, when further details are expected. AIFF and FSDL have been asked to submit a joint plan on that date. According to the proposal under discussion, the new commercial partner must be finalized by October 15. FSDL, as the current partner, has the first right of negotiation under its earlier agreement with AIFF.
It will also prepare India for the upcoming Asian Cup qualifiers in 2027, which will be held in Bangladesh in November. Clubs will have around three months to prepare their teams for the qualifying rounds.
The proposal under consideration also outlines a financial plan. ISL clubs would receive a promised payout of 560 crore rupees in total, as part of the league’s structure. The season is likely to begin in November 2025, once the agreements are signed and the schedule finalized.
For players, coaches, and fans, the Supreme Court’s decision has removed weeks of uncertainty. It gives Indian football a clear path for the season and a framework for its long-term development. With AIFF and FSDL expected to finalize the arrangements in the coming weeks, football lovers can look forward to a season that promises both excitement on the field and progress off it.
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