I-League (India) 2025/26

The I-League serves as the second tier of Indian football, operating below the Indian Super League. Founded in 2007 by the All India Football Federation, the competition was established to succeed the National Football League. For the 2026–27 season, it is rebranded as the Indian Football League (IFL).

The tournament follows a single-division double round-robin format without play-offs for the championship. Recent editions have accommodated between 10 and 12 clubs. Participation is open, distinguishing it from the closed franchise model of the top-flight league. Promotion and relegation remain active mechanisms within the structure. The I-League champion secures a place in the Indian Super League, while the bottom two clubs drop down to I-League 2.

Dempo SC holds the record for the most titles with three victories. The current champion is Inter Kashi FC, having claimed the 2024–25 title. Mohammedan SC won the previous season’s competition. The league features clubs such as Aizawl, Chanmari, Dempo, Diamond Harbour, Gokulam, and Namdhari.

The system relies on traditional fan bases and operates with lower resources compared to the higher-budget ISL. This open structure allows for movement between divisions based on performance. The competition continues to define the professional landscape beneath the premier tier. Clubs compete directly against each other in a straightforward scheduling arrangement. The focus remains on consistent league play rather than knockout formats for the top spot. The AIFF oversees the administration and regulations governing the tournament.