The Evolution of Indian Super League (ISL): From Inception to Present

The Indian Super League (ISL) has revolutionized Indian football since its inception, providing a professional platform that has elevated the sport’s profile both domestically and internationally. This article traces the journey of the ISL from its founding to the present, highlighting key milestones, challenges, and its impact on Indian football, including refereeing mistakes, attendance issues, and the folding of football clubs.

Inception and Early Years (2014-2016)

The ISL was established in 2013 with the aim of promoting football in India and creating a more competitive league structure. The inaugural season kicked off in October 2014, featuring eight franchise teams representing different cities across India. These teams included Atlético de Kolkata, Chennaiyin FC, Delhi Dynamos, FC Goa, Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City FC, NorthEast United FC, and Pune City FC.

The league’s format was inspired by major international sports leagues, featuring a round-robin stage followed by playoffs and a grand final. The involvement of international stars like Alessandro Del Piero, Nicolas Anelka, and David Trezeguet, along with prominent Indian players, generated significant excitement and media attention.

Key Milestones

1. First Season Success (2014): The inaugural season was a resounding success, with Atlético de Kolkata winning the first ISL championship. The league attracted large crowds and significant television viewership, setting the stage for future growth.

2. Introduction of New Teams (2017): In 2017, the ISL expanded to include two new teams, Jamshedpur FC and Bengaluru FC, increasing the total number of teams to ten. Bengaluru FC’s entry was particularly noteworthy as they brought a strong footballing pedigree from their success in the I-League.

3. Recognition by AFC (2017): The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) officially recognized the ISL as India’s premier football league, allowing ISL clubs to participate in continental competitions. This recognition was a significant milestone, enhancing the league’s credibility and international standing.

4. Merger with I-League (2019): In a move to streamline Indian football, the ISL was given top-tier status, with the I-League being positioned as the second division. This merger aimed to create a more unified and competitive league structure, providing a clearer pathway for clubs and players.

5. Implementation of the Promotion and Relegation System (2024): In line with global football standards, the ISL announced the introduction of a promotion and relegation system starting from the 2024 season. This move was expected to increase competition and incentivize better performance among clubs.

Impact on Indian Football

The ISL has had a profound impact on various aspects of Indian football:

1. Improved Infrastructure: The league has driven significant investments in football infrastructure, including stadium renovations, training facilities, and youth academies. This has raised the overall standard of football infrastructure in the country.

2. Talent Development: The ISL has provided a platform for young Indian players to showcase their talents alongside experienced international professionals. This exposure has been crucial for the development of local talent, with many players graduating to the national team.

3. Increased Popularity: The ISL has played a pivotal role in increasing the popularity of football in India. The league’s marketing efforts, celebrity endorsements, and high-quality broadcasts have helped attract a new generation of football fans.

4. Economic Impact: The league has stimulated economic activity through job creation, tourism, and sponsorship deals. The involvement of major corporate sponsors and broadcasters has brought financial stability and growth opportunities to the sport.

5. Women’s Football: The success of the ISL has also spurred interest in women’s football, leading to the establishment of the Indian Women’s League (IWL) and increased support for female footballers.

Challenges Faced

Despite its successes, the ISL has faced several significant challenges:

1. Refereeing Mistakes: Refereeing quality has been a recurring issue in the ISL. For example, in the 2017-18 season, a controversial offside decision in the semi-final match between FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC led to widespread criticism. The lack of experienced referees and inconsistent decision-making has often marred the competition. Steps have been taken to improve refereeing standards, including training programs and the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology.

One of the most talked-about incidents in ISL history is the controversial walkout by Kerala Blasters during the 2022-23 season. During a crucial match against Bengaluru FC, the Blasters walked off the pitch in protest over a contentious refereeing decision. The incident occurred when Bengaluru FC were awarded a controversial penalty in the dying minutes of the game, which led to heated arguments and ultimately the Blasters’ decision to abandon the match. This walkout not only sparked widespread debate about the quality of refereeing in the league but also highlighted the growing frustration among teams regarding inconsistent officiating standards. The aftermath saw the league imposing fines and discussing reforms to improve the overall refereeing quality and ensure fair play, emphasizing the need for better governance and transparency in the ISL.

2. Attendance Issues: While the ISL has attracted large television audiences, stadium attendance has been inconsistent. Cities like Kochi and Kolkata regularly see packed stadiums, while others struggle to fill seats. Factors such as inconvenient match timings, inadequate transportation, and lack of fan engagement activities have contributed to this issue. For instance, Delhi Dynamos (now Odisha FC) often played in front of sparse crowds at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.

3. Folding of Football Clubs: Financial instability has led to the folding of several football clubs. Pune City FC and Delhi Dynamos had to relocate and rebrand due to financial difficulties. Pune City FC ceased operations in 2019, and their franchise was taken over by Hyderabad FC. These disruptions affect the league’s stability and fan loyalty.

The 2023-24 season was particularly challenging for Hyderabad FC, as the club faced significant financial issues that threatened its stability and future in the Indian Super League (ISL). The financial troubles stemmed from a combination of poor sponsorship deals, dwindling matchday revenues, and escalating operational costs. Despite strong performances on the field, the club struggled to maintain financial viability. The lack of a solid financial foundation led to delays in player salaries and operational difficulties, causing unrest within the team and among the fans. These financial woes highlighted the broader challenges faced by ISL clubs in achieving sustainable growth and emphasized the need for better financial management and support structures within the league. The situation prompted urgent discussions about the financial health of clubs in the ISL, with calls for more stringent financial regulations and support from the league to ensure long-term stability.

4. Challenges in Getting Fan Attachment: Building a loyal fan base has been a significant challenge for ISL clubs. The franchise model, where teams can be relocated or rebranded, makes it difficult for fans to develop a deep attachment. Clubs like Chennaiyin FC and Mumbai City FC have invested in community engagement and youth programs to build a loyal fan base, but this remains a work in progress across the league.

Future Prospects

Despite these challenges, the future of the Indian Super League looks promising:

1. Sustainability: Ensuring financial sustainability for all clubs remains a key challenge. Continued investment and prudent financial management are essential for long-term success.

2. Grassroots Development: While the ISL has made strides in grassroots development, more efforts are needed to build a robust talent pipeline from the grassroots to the professional level.

3. International Competitiveness: Improving the competitiveness of ISL clubs in continental competitions is crucial for enhancing the league’s reputation and attracting top talent.

Conclusion

The Indian Super League has transformed the landscape of Indian football, bringing professionalism, visibility, and growth to the sport. As the league continues to evolve, its focus on sustainability, talent development, and international competitiveness will be key to ensuring its continued success and impact on Indian football. The journey of the ISL from its inception to the present is a testament to the potential of Indian football and its ability to inspire a nation. Despite challenges like refereeing mistakes, attendance issues, and financial instability, the ISL’s influence on Indian football remains profound and promising.