AIFF confirms ISL, I-League merger in 2018
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is all set to revamp the country's footballing structure, by merging both I-league and Indian Super League (ISL) by 2018. However, the governing body is not terming the association a merger as it is looking to change several nuances within its administrative hierarchy as well.
AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das said, “We have had discussion regarding changing the entire structure. We are not merging both the leagues, but we are attempting to create a completely new one that will encompass India's football ecosystem. The talks are at a preliminary stage, but the decision has been taken.
He added, “Our initial plans was to complete this by 2017 so that it would go in tandem with the U-17 World Cup. However, we have taken a collective decision on not rushing this, hence our last date for execution will be late 2018.”