AIFF Launches RFP for Commercial Rights of Football Tournaments
Synopsis
The All India Football Federation has initiated the bidding process for commercial rights related to its key football competitions, including the ISL and IWL. With multiple organizations vying for these rights, the outcome could significantly impact Indian football's commercial landscape.
Key Takeaways
AIFF opens bidding for commercial rights of major football competitions.
Rights for ISL , Federation Cup , IWL , and IWL 2 are up for grabs.
Bids submitted by FanCode , Genius Sports , and Capri Sports .
Agreement includes a five percent annual increase in value.
Decisions to be made by AIFF Executive Committee on March 29, 2026.
New Delhi, March 27 (NationPress) The All India Football Federation has officially opened the bidding process for the Request for Proposal (RFP) concerning the Commercial Rights associated with its competitions and properties. This includes the rights to the Indian Super League (ISL), Federation Cup (previously known as Super Cup), Indian Women’s League (IWL), and the IWL 2.
Three organizations have submitted bids: FanCode and Genius Sports are vying for the commercial rights related to the ISL and the Federation Cup, while Capri Sports has placed bids for the Indian Women’s League and IWL 2.
The bids are structured for a duration of 15 years, with an option for a five-year extension and include a right of first refusal for the bidder. Additionally, there is a provision for a five percent annual increase in value throughout the agreement period.
The AIFF Executive Committee will review the bid evaluation report during its meeting scheduled for Sunday, March 29, 2026, with a decision anticipated on that day.
Currently, matches of the ISL and Indian Football League are taking place at various venues across the nation, with live broadcasts on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, and streaming available via Waves and Sony LIV.
This bidding process follows the conclusion of the AIFF's long-standing commercial rights agreement for the ISL, which was previously held by Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), a subsidiary of Reliance. The rights for commercial exploitation of Indian football were initially sold to IMG-Reliance in 2010.
The Master Right Agreement (MRA) established in 2010 guaranteed the AIFF an annual revenue of ₹50 crore from FSDL. This agreement expired on December 8, and negotiations for a renewal did not succeed, leading to delays in the start of the ISL. The 2025-26 season commenced last month after a directive from the Supreme Court.
Point of View
The AIFF's decision to open bids for commercial rights marks a pivotal moment. This reflects both the growing interest in the sport and the potential for increased revenue flow, impacting stakeholders across the board. The outcome of this bidding process could reshape the commercial framework of Indian football for years to come.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What competitions are included in the RFP?
The RFP includes the Indian Super League, Federation Cup, Indian Women’s League, and IWL 2.
Who submitted bids for the commercial rights?
Bids were submitted by FanCode, Genius Sports, and Capri Sports.
What is the duration of the bid term?
The bids are for a term of 15 years, with an option for a five-year extension.
When will the AIFF Executive Committee meet to decide on the bids?
The Committee will meet on Sunday, March 29, 2026, to review the bids.
What was the previous agreement for commercial rights?
The previous rights were held by Football Sports Development Limited and expired on December 8.
