In a significant development for Indian football, seven Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have been granted the Premier 1 licence with sanctions, while Mohun Bagan is among seven clubs that have been rejected. The clubs that received the licence with sanctions are NorthEast United FC, East Bengal FC, Jamshedpur FC, Mumbai City FC, Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, and Punjab FC. This decision was announced on 20 May 2026.
Implications of the Premier 1 Licence
The Premier 1 licence is a critical certification for clubs aiming to participate in top-tier competitions, including the AFC Champions League. The licence ensures that clubs meet specific criteria related to infrastructure, finance, and governance. Being granted a licence with sanctions means these clubs have met most requirements but need to address certain conditions within a stipulated timeframe.
Clubs Granted Licences
The seven clubs that have been granted the Premier 1 licence with sanctions are among the most prominent in the ISL. They include:
- NorthEast United FC
- East Bengal FC
- Jamshedpur FC
- Mumbai City FC
- Bengaluru FC
- FC Goa
- Punjab FC
Clubs Rejected
On the other hand, seven clubs have been rejected for the Premier 1 licence. Among them is Mohun Bagan, one of the most historic and successful clubs in Indian football. The rejection means these clubs will not be eligible for certain competitions unless they appeal or meet the criteria in future assessments.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The licensing committee evaluated clubs based on a set of stringent criteria. While the exact reasons for rejection have not been disclosed, common issues often include financial instability, inadequate infrastructure, or non-compliance with club licensing regulations. Clubs that received sanctions may have minor deficiencies that need to be rectified.
Reactions from the Football Community
The news has sparked discussions among fans and stakeholders. East Bengal supporters have expressed relief and optimism, while Mohun Bagan fans are disappointed but hopeful that the club will address the issues. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has stated that clubs have the right to appeal the decision.
Next Steps for Affected Clubs
Clubs that were rejected can appeal to the AIFF's licensing committee. They will need to provide additional documentation or make improvements to meet the required standards. The timeline for appeals is expected to be announced soon. For clubs with sanctions, they must fulfill the conditions within the given period to retain their licence.
This development underscores the growing professionalism in Indian football, as clubs are held to higher standards. The Premier 1 licence is part of the AIFF's efforts to align with AFC regulations and improve the overall quality of the sport in the country.
