Archive · 29 Jan 2026
I-League Rebranded as Indian Football League
The I-League, which is the second division of Indian football, has been renamed to the Indian Football League (IFL).
This change comes with a new format and a new governing council that includes the clubs, the All India Football Federation (AIFF), and a commercial partner.
The league will start on February 21, 2025, with at least 10 teams.
The new format has two stages: the first is a round-robin single-leg system for all clubs, and the second stage has two sections where the top six clubs play for promotion and the bottom teams play to avoid relegation.
Clubs now have a bigger say in commercial aspects, which they hope will help them find sponsors and broadcasters.
Despite financial challenges, clubs are optimistic about the future of the league.
The name change indicates a fresh start, and the clubs are keen to drive this forward.
The I-League has been rebranded as the Indian Football League (IFL) with a new format and governing council.
The league will start on February 21, 2025, with at least 10 teams participating.
The new format includes a two-stage competition with promotion and relegation.
Clubs now own 60% equity, the AIFF owns 10%, and the commercial partner owns 30%.
Clubs are optimistic about finding sponsors and broadcasters despite financial challenges.
- Who
- All India Football Federation (AIFF) and club representatives
- What
- Rebranding of the I-League to Indian Football League (IFL) with a new format and governing council
- When
- Announced on Wednesday, starting February 21, 2025
- Where
- India
- Why
- To restructure and revitalize the second tier of Indian football
- New League Name
- Indian Football League (IFL)
- Start Date
- February 21, 2025
- Governing Structure
- Governing Council with clubs, AIFF, and commercial partner
- Equity Distribution
- Clubs: 60%, AIFF: 10%, Commercial Partner: 30%
- Format
- Two-stage competition with promotion and relegation
- Expected Teams
- At least 10 teams
- Previous Name
- I-League
- Top League
- Indian Super League (ISL)
- Meeting Attendance
- 8 out of 11 clubs attended the meeting
- Confirmation Deadline
- February 2, 2025
Sources
I-League gets new name, new format, new governing council
Football will thrive again in Kashmir Valley with start of I-League: Real Kashmir owner Arshad
I-League to be renamed as Indian Football League
I-League to be rechristened as Indian Football League from February 21, clubs to become majority stakeholders
