ISL Expansion: The Indian Super League (ISL) has been a closed league since its inception in 2014. However, according to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) roadmap, agreed upon by all parties in 2019, promotion and relegation will be introduced starting in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, respectively. The goal is to attain a strength of 16 clubs before instituting relegation in Indian football’s top flight.
In line with this roadmap, the league is set to grow to 12 teams in 2023-24, with I-League champions RoundGlass Punjab eligible to compete in the league if they fulfill the stringent AFC licensing criteria. However, no relegation will be introduced yet, according to AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey. “Our aim is to have a structured football league, which fulfills all basic AFC guidelines,” he said.
Here’s what we know so far about the promotion and relegation plans for ISL : ISL Expansion
ISL Expansion Plan
The ISL organizers, FSDL, aspire to grow the league to 16 teams before introducing relegation in the top-tier of Indian football. This expansion is in line with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) roadmap agreed upon by all stakeholders in 2019.
Promotion and Relegation Timeline
Promotion to ISL is set to be introduced in the 2023-24 season, while relegation will be implemented in the 2024-25 season. This shift marks a significant change since the ISL has been a closed league since its inception in 2014.
RoundGlass Punjab FC
I-League champions RoundGlass Punjab FC are working on obtaining the necessary licensing to join the ISL. If they meet the stringent AFC licensing criteria, they will be eligible to play in the league starting from the 2023-24 season.
ISL Expansion: Relegation to be Introduced Once League Reaches 16 Teams
No Participation Fee for Promoted Teams
Unlike existing ISL franchises that pay a participation fee of Rs 15-18 crore per season, promoted I-League champions will not be obliged to pay any participation fee, making it a more accessible opportunity for clubs.
Minimum Wage for Women Footballers
The AIFF has introduced a minimum wage for female footballers, with top teams having at least 10 home-grown players on contracts of a minimum of Rs 3.2 lakh. This initiative aims to improve the conditions for female players in the Indian Women’s League (IWL).
Institutional League
The AIFF has announced the launch of a 10-team institutional league involving public sector undertakings (PSUs). This league aims to provide job opportunities and revive PSU teams that faded into obscurity due to licensing criteria.
ISL Expansion: Relegation to be Introduced Once League Reaches 16 Teams
Foreign Player Restrictions
Starting from the upcoming season, no foreign players can be registered for state leagues. In the ISL and I-League, six foreigners can be registered, with four (including one Asian player) allowed on the pitch during matches.
Preparing for AFC Asian Cup
The AIFF is in discussion with stakeholders and marketing partners regarding a camp for the Indian Football Team’s preparation for the AFC Asian Cup. A schedule of international matches has been planned, including the International Cup, SAFF Championship, Asian Games, Merdeka Cup, and FIFA international windows.
ISL Expansion: Relegation to be Introduced Once League Reaches 16 Teams
ISL Expansion: While no official decision has been taken yet, it is clear that the ISL has ambitious expansion plans. The introduction of promotion and relegation in the top flight of Indian football is a major step towards a more structured football league that fulfills all basic AFC guidelines. With the roadmap in place, it remains to be seen how the ISL will evolve in the coming years.
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