Jamshedpur FC first to confirm participation; seven clubs give consent amid long-awaited clarity on league’s future
Jamshedpur, Jan 12: After months of uncertainty and prolonged discussions, the Indian Super League (ISL) 2026 is finally set to kick off on February 14, bringing much-needed clarity and excitement for Indian football fans. The confirmation marks a significant moment for the country’s premier football competition, which had faced delays due to financial and administrative challenges.
Jamshedpur FC (JFC) emerged as the first club to formally confirm its participation in writing, playing a key role in breaking the deadlock surrounding the league’s future. The club’s proactive stance has been widely appreciated within football circles and is seen as a positive step towards stabilising the competition.
So far, seven clubs have officially conveyed their consent to participate in the upcoming season. These include Jamshedpur FC, East Bengal FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Punjab FC, Mohammedan SC, NorthEast United FC, and Inter Kashi, which will make its debut in the ISL after emerging as I-League champions.
However, confirmation from a few prominent clubs is still awaited. Mumbai City FC, Kerala Blasters FC, and Bengaluru FC are yet to give their final approval. Sources indicate that these clubs are likely to come on board soon following discussions involving the Ministry of Sports, which has stepped in to help resolve outstanding issues.
The new season will also witness two major changes. Inter Kashi will feature in the ISL for the first time, adding fresh competition to the league. Meanwhile, Hyderabad FC will compete under a new identity as SC Delhi, shifting its base to the national capital.
Notably, ISL 2026 is beginning nearly six months later than its usual schedule. The delay was caused by disputes between club owners and league organisers over financial concerns, including the absence of commercial partners, franchise fee pressures, and revenue-sharing arrangements. At one stage, there were even fears that the season could be cancelled.
The breakthrough came after an agreement was reached to conduct the tournament in a single-leg format on a home-and-away basis.
Jamshedpur FC, reiterating its commitment to the sport, stated that its decision was taken in the larger interest of Indian football. Ongoing talks between club owners and the Ministry of Sports are expected to further smoothen the path for the league’s successful conduct.
