Organize a playoff tie to decide the 14th ISL team 2026-27
The Issue
The Indian domestic football scene has been struck by unprecedented challenges. The termination of commercial rights created a ripple effect that delayed the start of the domestic season until February 2026, reducing the schedule to a single round-robin format. This situation has put clubs like Mohammedan Sporting Club in a precarious position.
Once a revered name in Indian football, Mohammedan Sporting Club finds itself battling odds most clubs would stagger against. For the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season, they were placed at the bottom. While the usual protocol would see them relegated to the I-League, this season has been anything but usual. Compounded by a FIFA transfer ban, the club has been restricted to playing with an All-Indian squad, vastly affecting their performance. The truncated season further robbed them of valuable regrouping time.
Meanwhile, Diamond Harbour FC, the I-League champions for the 2025–26 season, rightfully earns a spot in the ISL 2026-27. However, the injustice lies in not granting Mohammedan Sporting Club a fair chance to contend for their position in the ISL 2026-27 against Diamond Harbour FC. Given the extraordinary circumstances, a playoff tie between these two clubs at the end of the 2025-26 season could be the most equitable solution to decide the league's 14th team.
This tie would not only ensure fair play and competition but also answer the growing call for sporting integrity and respect for tradition. Moreover, it's a shot at redemption and resilience for Mohammedan Sporting under the hindrance of their transfer ban, allowing them to prove their mettle in the face of adversity.
We, the passionate supporters of Indian football, urge the All India Football Federation and the respective league authorities to consider organizing this playoff tie. It is an opportunity to stand up for fairness in our beloved game and restore faith in the principles of equity and justice.
Sign the petition to give these clubs the opportunity they deserve and uphold the spirit of true competition in Indian football.
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The Issue
The Indian domestic football scene has been struck by unprecedented challenges. The termination of commercial rights created a ripple effect that delayed the start of the domestic season until February 2026, reducing the schedule to a single round-robin format. This situation has put clubs like Mohammedan Sporting Club in a precarious position.
Once a revered name in Indian football, Mohammedan Sporting Club finds itself battling odds most clubs would stagger against. For the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season, they were placed at the bottom. While the usual protocol would see them relegated to the I-League, this season has been anything but usual. Compounded by a FIFA transfer ban, the club has been restricted to playing with an All-Indian squad, vastly affecting their performance. The truncated season further robbed them of valuable regrouping time.
Meanwhile, Diamond Harbour FC, the I-League champions for the 2025–26 season, rightfully earns a spot in the ISL 2026-27. However, the injustice lies in not granting Mohammedan Sporting Club a fair chance to contend for their position in the ISL 2026-27 against Diamond Harbour FC. Given the extraordinary circumstances, a playoff tie between these two clubs at the end of the 2025-26 season could be the most equitable solution to decide the league's 14th team.
This tie would not only ensure fair play and competition but also answer the growing call for sporting integrity and respect for tradition. Moreover, it's a shot at redemption and resilience for Mohammedan Sporting under the hindrance of their transfer ban, allowing them to prove their mettle in the face of adversity.
We, the passionate supporters of Indian football, urge the All India Football Federation and the respective league authorities to consider organizing this playoff tie. It is an opportunity to stand up for fairness in our beloved game and restore faith in the principles of equity and justice.
Sign the petition to give these clubs the opportunity they deserve and uphold the spirit of true competition in Indian football.
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Petition created on 25 May 2026