New Delhi, October 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 season begins on October 10, with 13 teams set to compete in an eight-month campaign featuring the return of the traditional home-and-away format and playoffs. The season is scheduled to run until May 2027.
The revamped competition will feature 163 matches, with every team facing the other participating clubs twice — once at home and once away. The extended format is expected to place a premium on consistency as teams compete for the league title and a place in the knockout stages.
The team finishing at the top of the league standings will be crowned Shield Winners and recognised as the official ISL champions. The top six teams will qualify for the playoffs to compete for the ISL Cup.
The participating clubs are 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.
The upcoming campaign will be the first under a new club-led structure, giving participating teams a greater role in shaping the league’s direction and key decisions. The change marks a significant shift in the administration of India’s top-tier domestic football competition.
The return of home-and-away fixtures will also give clubs more opportunities to play in front of their home supporters. Teams will need to maintain consistent performances throughout the league phase to secure a place among the top six and remain in contention for the ISL Cup.
The season will feature 13 teams instead of the expected 14 after Diamond Harbour FC, which earned promotion by winning the 2025-26 Indian Football League title, failed to meet the administrative fee requirement.
Where to watch ISL 2026-27
Football fans can watch ISL 2026-27 matches on Sony Sports Network television channels. Live streaming will be available on SonyLIV, while matches will also be streamed free of charge on YouTube.
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