ISL 2026-27 to Return to Home-and-Away Format, 163 Matches Planned

XtraTime Web Desk: The Indian Super League (ISL) is set to begin on October 10, with the 2026-27 season scheduled to continue until May 2027. The league will return to its traditional home-and-away format, bringing back a structure that has been familiar to Indian football fans in previous seasons.

Under the new format, the team finishing at the top of the league standings after the home-and-away round-robin phase will officially be crowned ISL champions and will also lift the League Shield. The top-ranked team will also earn the opportunity to represent India in AFC competitions.

At the same time, the playoffs will make a return. The top six teams at the end of the league stage will qualify for the playoffs, with the eventual winner being crowned ISL Cup champions.

The eight-month-long competition is expected to feature a total of 163 matches.

Another major change is the organisation of the league. This season, the ISL will be jointly organised by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the club consortium. Many believe that the new model could provide fresh hope for the future of Indian football and bring greater stability to the league.

A total of 13 teams are expected to participate in the home-and-away round-robin format. Churchill Brothers' participation, however, remains subject to the necessary approval.

The participating teams are Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, Churchill Brothers, East Bengal, FC Goa, Inter Kashi, Kerala Blasters, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Mumbai City FC, NorthEast United, Odisha FC, Punjab FC and Sporting Club Delhi.

Meanwhile, Diamond Harbour FC, who won the Indian Football League last season and thereby earned eligibility to participate in the ISL, will not feature in the upcoming edition. The club failed to submit the required participation fee and documents within the stipulated requirements.

As a result, Diamond Harbour FC will have to return to the Indian Football League next season.