Government Steps In as ISL Faces Cancellation Threat

After the Supreme Court expressed serious concern that the 2025–26 Indian Super League season might be canceled due to the failed commercial rights bid, the central government stepped in to help resolve the crisis. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports scheduled a full day of meetings led by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya at the Sports Authority of India headquarters. Representatives from the AIFF, ISL clubs, I-League teams, broadcasters, and former commercial partners were all invited to work toward a solution that follows FIFA guidelines. The AIFF has said it is willing to be flexible on its earlier demand of a ₹37.5 crore annual minimum guarantee if the government can provide financial support. The Supreme Court also advised using Justice L. Nageswara Rao’s report—which criticized the high financial demands and highlighted governance problems—as a guide for fixing the situation. These meetings could determine the future structure of Indian football and whether the ISL can continue without further disruption.