Jamshedpur FC announce withdrawal from ISL after nine seasons

Jamshedpur FC has confirmed that it will not participate in the Indian Super League (ISL) from the 2026-27 season onwards, bringing an end to its nine-year journey in India's top-flight football league.

The Tata Steel-owned club announced the decision in an official statement on Friday after failing to meet the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) extended deadline to pay the first instalment of the participation fee under the league's new commercial framework.

Under the revised club-led model, ISL clubs were required to confirm their participation by paying an initial fee of ₹55 lakh by July 20.

Jamshedpur FC sought an extension until July 31, citing the need for shareholder approval as Jamshedpur Football and Sporting Private Limited (JFSPL) is backed by Tata Steel.

Club to continue grassroots football initiatives

Despite being granted additional time, along with daily penalties during the extension period, the club ultimately decided against making the payment and informed the AIFF that it would not participate in the league from the upcoming season.

In its statement, Jamshedpur FC said JFSPL remains committed to contributing to Indian football through grassroots development, youth talent identification and creating pathways for young footballers to progress to higher levels of the game.

The club also expressed gratitude to its supporters, players, coaching staff, employees and the AIFF for their support throughout its journey.

Founded in 2017, Jamshedpur FC made its ISL debut in the 2017-18 season and established itself as one of the league's competitive sides. The club's biggest achievement came in the 2021-22 campaign when it won the ISL League Shield after finishing at the top of the league standings.

The decision comes amid ongoing discussions around the ISL's revised commercial structure and the long-term sustainability of club operations under the new model. The parent entity, JFSPL, will continue its involvement in football development despite winding up its professional ISL team operations.