The Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 season will go ahead with 13 participating clubs, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed on Wednesday, August 19.

The upcoming campaign will follow a double round-robin format, with every club playing each opponent twice – once at home and once away. The structure is expected to provide all participating teams with an equal number of home and away fixtures during the regular season.

While the number of participating clubs and competition format have now been finalised, the kick-off date for the 2026-27 season is yet to be announced. The AIFF said the date will be communicated at a later stage.

Details regarding the complete fixture list and other aspects of the upcoming campaign will also be released separately, as the apex body confirmed in its statement.

The confirmation of 13 teams provides much-needed clarity ahead of the new season, particularly for clubs as they continue preparations both on and off the pitch.

A club representative welcomed the development as AIFF quoted as saying, “We’re pleased to get the number of teams locked in for the season. This now allows us to move forward with essential commercial discussions and fixture planning for the league.”

ISL to start on October 10

The confirmation comes as clubs prepare for another competitive ISL campaign, which was massively delayed last season. The new season has also been postponed by a month as it is likely to start on October 10. The delay is due to the International Window, which will see Brazil travelling to Kolkata for a match against India.

Is it the end for Diamond Harbour FC?

With the latest AIFF statement, it means curtains for Diamond Harbour FC, who failed to pay their participation fee on Wednesday. The I-League champions from last season were expected to play in ISL, but their inability to pay Rs 55 lakh means they won’t feature in the ISL next season.

Who will be the 13 teams in ISL 2026-27?

Mohun Bagan Super Giant, FC Goa, Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, Kerala Blasters, Chennaiyin FC, Odisha FC, NorthEast United FC, Punjab FC, SC Delhi, East Bengal and Inter Kashi – these 12 clubs are confirmed to play in the ISL next season.

The future of the 13th team hangs in the balance. After Jamshedpur FC called it quits, Churchill Brothers bought its sporting license, but their participation is yet to be confirmed.