SC Clears ISL 2025-26 to Begin in December, Appoints Justice Rao to Oversee Tender

The Supreme Court has paved the way for the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season to begin in December, despite uncertainty over the expiring 15-year contract between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL).

Without mentioning fresh AIFF elections, the court appointed Justice L. Nageswara Rao to oversee a transparent tender for selecting a new commercial partner.

AIFF and FSDL assured coordination, with FSDL waiving rights under the 2010 contract and issuing a no-objection certificate.

The Super Cup will be held in September, while the court reserved its verdict on AIFF’s draft constitution under the National Sports Governance Act, 2025.