AIFF Confirms October 30 Start for 2026-27 Indian Football League with New Foreign Player Rules
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Governing Council for the Indian Football League (IFL) formally confirmed that the 2026-27 domestic season will commence on October 30, 2026. The decision was finalized during a high-level meeting at Football House in New Delhi, chaired by AIFF officials alongside representatives from all 11 participating club franchises. Following a truncated 2025-26 campaign that saw broadcast viewership quadruple compared to previous years, the upcoming season will return to a full-fledged home-and-away format.
Among the key regulatory updates introduced for the 2026-27 season is a rule restricting clubs to fielding a maximum of three foreign players on the pitch simultaneously during matches. This move aims to provide greater playing time and exposure for domestic Indian talent. Furthermore, the league is expanding its geographic footprint by introducing Nagaland and Odisha as new host venues for official matches. In addition to reviewing club charters, proposed operational budgets, and sponsorship packages, AIFF leadership and club representatives held discussions with Prasar Bharati leadership to finalize multi-platform broadcast arrangements, ensuring extensive reach for Indian football supporters across the country.
