The future of the Indian Super League remains under discussion as the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and its marketing partner Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) attempt to find common ground before the current Master Rights Agreement (MRA) expires on December 8.
According to a fresh report, the AIFF is keen to secure the ISL’s position as India’s top-tier football league for the next decade, building on the status granted in 2019. Back then, a roadmap was created by all stakeholders that included a promotion system from the I-League starting in the 2022-23 season. This has already seen clubs like Punjab FC and Mohammedan Sporting Club rise to the ISL. However, relegation is still not part of the league format and remains a sticking point in the ongoing discussions.
As part of its new demands, the AIFF wants a 10-year commitment with FSDL to operate the ISL under an agreed calendar window and complete commercial autonomy. They have also proposed a new structure where the ISL winners would occupy the first slot in AFC competitions while I-League winners would take the second, replacing the previous system where the Super Cup champions got a continental spot.
One key point of contention is the AIFF’s proposal that FSDL contribute an annual payment of ₹50 crore or 10 percent of the total league revenue (whichever is higher) to the game development fund in 2026, with a five percent annual increment. FSDL, however, is reportedly not on board with this financial demand and has countered with a plan for a new holding company that would include clubs with a 60 percent stake, FSDL with 26 percent, and AIFF with 14 percent.
With the current 15-year MRA agreement ending soon, the AIFF is hopeful that a resolution will be found once the Supreme Court issues its expected order. The apex court had earlier stated on April 26 that the renewal of the MRA should be held until its final verdict is delivered. A senior AIFF official confirmed that they are waiting for the Supreme Court’s guidance to clear the way for the next phase of Indian football’s top league.