Indian Super League (ISL) Media Rights Up for Grabs: A New Era for Indian Football
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially launched the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the media rights of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-2026 season. This move comes after an initial struggle to find a broadcaster and commercial partner for the upcoming season.
The ISL Season Ahead
The upcoming ISL season is set to kick off on February 14, 2026, featuring 91 matches in a home-and-away round-robin format. The AIFF is seeking a partner capable of delivering high-quality coverage across television and digital platforms.
AIFF's Proposed Governance Model
According to Ashish Negi, a sports journalist, the AIFF owns and operates the ISL, with two bodies: the Governing Council and the Management Committee. No major decisions are made without the AIFF's affirmative votes, and significant deals, revenue sharing, and budget changes require AIFF approval.
Relevance to Northeast India and Beyond
The development of the ISL media rights RFP has far-reaching implications for the Northeast region and Indian football as a whole. As the popularity of football continues to grow in India, the ISL's increased visibility could attract more talent and investment from the region. Moreover, a robust broadcast partnership could help to bridge the gap between Northeast football and the rest of the country, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant football culture.
Bid Evaluation Process
The AIFF will assess all proposals through a dedicated Bid Evaluation Committee. Technical bids will be reviewed for eligibility, broadcast capability, and production standards. Only compliant bidders will progress to the commercial stage, where financial offers will be evaluated. The process is entirely digital, with bidders required to submit both technical and commercial bids via email.
Looking Forward
The media rights RFP for the ISL 2025-2026 season presents an exciting opportunity for broadcasters and digital platforms to become part of Indian football's growth story. As the competition continues to evolve, the AIFF's commitment to finding a suitable partner remains steadfast. With the deadline for bid submission fast approaching, the stage is set for a competitive bidding process that could shape the future of Indian football.