The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has proposed that the Super Cup be held from the second or third week of September to ensure Indian Super League (ISL) clubs get enough competitive matches, amid growing uncertainty surrounding the start date and format of the upcoming season. This proposal comes as the ISL clubs have raised concerns due to the hold-up in the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the league organizers and the national federation.

In a meeting with representatives from all ISL clubs, the AIFF addressed the situation, stating that the Super Cup, typically held at the end of the season, may now kick off the 2025-26 football calendar. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey explained, “The AIFF and all 13 ISL clubs collectively took the decision in national interest. We will meet again in 7 to 10 days to take a final decision.”

The meeting, which included virtual participation from Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal, and Odisha FC, also saw in-person attendance from representatives of the other 10 ISL clubs. Chaubey assured that the AIFF is “hoping to have ISL this season, though it may be a bit late,” but added that changes to the format or other aspects of the league could be implemented. However, he noted that no final decision had been made regarding these changes.

The Super Cup is likely to end before India’s AFC Asian Cup qualification matches against Singapore on October 9 and 14. The ISL, which typically runs from September to April, is facing delays due to the expiration of the current MRA between Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the event organizer, and the AIFF, which is set to expire on December 8, 2025.

Amid the uncertainty, clubs like Chennaiyin FC, Bengaluru FC, and Odisha FC have temporarily suspended operations for their first-team players and staff, citing the ongoing disruption in the league’s future.

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