AIFF in talks to revamp Super Cup: New FA Cup format to be played over 7 months

The AIFF is in discussions to revise the Super Cup format, which is currently held in a brief span of a month in the middle of the season. This past edition, the format was that of a group cum knockout tournament, which eventually led to East Bengal winning and earning a place in the AFC Champions League 2 Qualifiers.

Now, there are plans to change the format and make it similar to that of the FA Cup in England. The initial rumours suggest that the Super Cup will run alongside the ISL and I-League, offering more matches across the season.

AIFF in discussions to revamp Super Cup format from 24/25 season

🚨🥈The AIFF , FSDL and the Odisha Government signed a 3-year deal with regards to the Super Cup

• The home and away format will be proposed from 2024-25 if Odisha Government continues to offer the support. Else, it will be same as this season

—@SohanPodder2 pic.twitter.com/nlO06HMt2N

— Mohun Bagan Hub (@MohunBaganHub) May 20, 2024

It is worth noting that the AIFF, FSDL and Odisha Government have signed a three-year deal to keep the tournament in Odisha. This past season, all matches were held in stadiums across the state, and contractually, it is expected to remain in Odisha.

However, a new home and away format could change things for the Super Cup. The proposed date for the new format is between October 1, 2024 and May 15, 2025.

It will be interesting to see how the scheduling takes place, since ISL matches are played every day, unlike European leagues where they are usually over weekends. To progress deep into the tournament, clubs might have to play a game every three days, which could pose challenges to player fitness and risk injuries in the long term.