The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has unveiled distinct participation frameworks for India's top two football leagues, the Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League, signaling a significant shift in governance. The Khel Now article, published on January 16, 2026, accurately explains the proposed I-League framework, highlighting its club-centric approach. Under the proposed I-League structure, the league will remain 100% owned and operated by the AIFF, functioning as an open pyramid with promotion and relegation. A new League Governance Board is envisioned, granting clubs collective control over commercial and operational decisions, with the AIFF's veto powers strictly limited. This framework is part of a proposed 20-year term starting from the 2026-27 season. For the immediate 2025-26 season, the AIFF plans to underwrite 40% of league expenses (up to ₹5 crore), while clubs will cover the remaining 60%. From 2026-27, an indicative revenue split sees clubs receiving 60%, AIFF 10%, and commercial/equity partners 30%. A participation fee of ₹20 lakh per club per year (or ₹2.5 crore cumulatively) is proposed, which will be fully reimbursable from central revenue. In stark contrast, the recently approved ISL governance model establishes a Governing Council and Management Committee, with the AIFF maintaining greater authority and a decisive veto over key decisions. The AIFF will continue to own, organize, and operate the ISL as the nation's top-tier professional football competition. Promotion and relegation between the ISL and I-League are confirmed to be fully implemented from the 2025-26 season. For the truncated 2025-26 ISL season, which is set to begin on February 14, 2026, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has granted recognition. However, due to the reduced number of fixtures, ISL and Super Cup champions will receive indirect slots for the AFC Champions League 2 via zonal qualifiers, as clubs cannot meet the AFC's minimum 24-match requirement for direct qualification. This differentiation in governance philosophy and operational control underscores AIFF's varied vision for its two premier men's leagues, solidifying a long-term roadmap for Indian football.