In an important relief for Indian Football League (IFL) clubs, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has significantly reduced the participation fee for the upcoming 2026-27 season, with the amount now set at ₹20 lakh, MyKhel understands.

The development comes after clubs raised serious concerns over the financial burden of participating in the second tier of Indian football.

AIFF reduces IFL Participation Fee

An initial participation fee of around ₹1.20-1.30 crore had been proposed, but the clubs were not prepared to commit such a substantial amount given the financial difficulties faced by several teams.

Following discussions between the clubs and the federation, AIFF has now brought the figure down dramatically to ₹20 lakh, providing considerable financial relief ahead of the new campaign.

The move is particularly significant as the IFL prepares for a more structured 2026-27 season. The league, formerly known as the I-League, is scheduled to begin on October 30 and will return to a full-fledged home-and-away format. The 11 participating clubs were represented at the IFL Governing Council meeting in New Delhi earlier this month.

The upcoming season will also see the IFL expand its geographical footprint, with Nagaland and Odisha added as new venues. Clubs will be permitted to have a maximum of three foreign players on the pitch at a time.

The participation-fee reduction is therefore being viewed by clubs as a welcome step at a time when financial sustainability remains a major concern across Indian football.

Clubs prepare for IFL 2026-27 Season

A number of clubs have already started their pre-season ahead of the new IFL season. Mohammedan SC have played in the Calcutta Football League, while Chanmari FC are set to begin their camp soon under new coach Steven Dias.

Sreenidi Deccan will participate in the IFA Shield competition from today, while Samaleswari SC are expected to begin their pre-season from October 1. Nagaland United, who acquired IFL license from Aizawl FC, are gearing up for the new season as well.