Sony Pictures Network (SPN) has officially entered into a sub-licensing agreement with the streaming platform FanCode to broadcast the Indian Super League (ISL) on linear television. The deal ensures that the 2025-26 season, which features a modified and shortened format, will reach millions of households across the Indian subcontinent.
A Multi-Platform Approach for Indian Football
Following a period of administrative uncertainty, the AIFF awarded the global media rights for the current season to FanCode. This new sub-license allows SPN to air live fixtures on its Sony Sports Ten 2 channel.
The agreement covers several key regions:
- Exclusive Rights: India.
- Non-Exclusive Rights: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
The season officially kicked off on February 14, 2026, with Mohun Bagan SG securing a 2-0 victory over Kerala Blasters.
The Shortened 2025-26 Format
Due to operational delays and the suspension of the league since July 2024, the current campaign will run as an abbreviated season ending on May 17, 2026.
- Total Matches: Each team will play 13 ISL games (91 total).
- Cup Integration: Teams will also play three Indian Super Cup games, totaling 16 matches per team for the season.
Strengthening the “Home of Football”
Rajesh Kaul, SPN’s head of sports, highlighted that nearly 100 million viewers watched football on Sony channels in 2025. The ISL now joins an impressive portfolio that includes the UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga, FA Cup, and the Durand Cup.
FanCode’s successful bid of approximately 8.62 crore rupees ($939,000) for the season marks a significant shift from previous high-value contracts, reflecting the league’s recent transition from FSDL management back to the AIFF.