Indian Football Misses 2026 Asian Games as AIFF Announces ISL Commercial Shift

Deputy Secretary General M Satyanarayan of the All India Football Federation said India’s men’s football team will not take part in the 2026 Asian Games in Japan after failing to meet the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’ requirement of being ranked among the top eight Asian nations. He blamed inadequate infrastructure, training standards and prolonged legal disputes for the setback, adding that new governance reforms are needed.

At a press briefing in New Delhi, AIFF and representatives of the Indian Super League clubs – FC Goa, NorthEast United FC and Sporting Club Delhi – revealed that the clubs will now hold the commercial rights for the ISL, while AIFF will retain administrative oversight. The league will shift to a club‑led, broadcast‑driven model, with an upcoming request for proposals to secure a broadcast partner and sponsorships. The 2026‑27 ISL season is planned as a full home‑and‑away format aligned with FIFA international windows and AFC club competitions, aiming for greater financial sustainability under the new National Sports Governance Act and recent Supreme Court guidance.