The Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season will commence on February 14, following a nine-month delay due to an expired commercial deal between the AIFF and FSDL. This delay has led to financial pressures, with franchises requesting players accept pay cuts of up to 25 percent. The situation highlights challenges in Indian football, including player compensation relative to performance and the country's FIFA ranking, as stakeholders work to ensure the league's viability.