AFC Recognizes Shortened 2025-26 ISL Season with Indirect Continental Qualification Slots

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has officially recognized the shortened 2025-26 Indian Super League (ISL) season, which will start on February 14 with 14 teams playing 91 matches. Due to the delayed start and reduced fixtures, clubs will not meet the AFC's requirement of 24 matches for direct qualification to the AFC Champions League 2. Consequently, ISL and Super Cup winners will receive only indirect slots through zonal qualifiers, as outlined in an AFC letter to the All India Football Federation (AIFF).