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IWL Split Season: How Clubs' Request Reshapes Women's Football Calendar

The AIFF has made a significant change to the Indian Women's League format by splitting it into two phases. This decision came after all eight participating clubs requested schedule adjustments to better accommodate international commitments. The new calendar ensures players involved in national team duties and continental tournaments won't miss league matches. East Bengal will defend their championship title under this revised two-phase structure.

Key Points: AIFF Announces Two-Phase Indian Women's League Schedule

  • Phase 1 scheduled from December 20, 2025 to January 6, 2026
  • Phase 2 runs from April 20 to May 10, 2026
  • Decision follows clubs' request to accommodate international assignments
  • Format ensures players can fulfill national team commitments
  • East Bengal enters as defending champion under new schedule
  • Revised calendar maintains competitive intensity across both phases
2 min read

IWL to be played in two phase following clubs' request: AIFF

AIFF revises IWL into two phases after clubs request schedule adjustments for international commitments. New format balances domestic league with national team duties.

"At the clubs' request, it has been mutually decided that the IWL will be played in two phases - AIFF Statement"

New Delhi, Nov 3

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced that the upcoming season of the Indian Women's League (IWL) will be played in two separate phases following a joint decision taken with all participating clubs.

The revised structure comes after several teams requested adjustments to accommodate players involved in international assignments and national team commitments.

The decision was finalised during a meeting held on Thursday, October 30 between the AIFF and representatives from all eight IWL clubs. "The All India Football Federation held a meeting with all eight Indian Women's League clubs on Thursday, October 30, 2025. At the clubs' request, it has been mutually decided that the IWL will be played in two phases," the federation said in a statement.

As per the new schedule, Phase 1 of the IWL will be held between December 20, 2025, and January 6, 2026, while Phase 2 will begin on April 20 and conclude by May 10, 2026. The AIFF explained that the schedule was revised to ensure that players who are part of national teams or competing in continental events can fulfill their international duties without disrupting the domestic league calendar.

"With a considerable number of players engaged in their respective clubs' international assignments and national team commitments," the federation said, "the revised calendar ensures balance between league participation and preparation for international tournaments."

The AIFF also outlined the recent international activity of the women's teams, noting that the respective sides have already qualified for the AFC Women's Asian Cups and have been involved in extensive training and friendly matches. According to the federation, "The respective teams have qualified for the AFC Women's Asian Cups, and have played the following matches after their qualification: Senior Women's National Team - 13 days in camp, 3 friendly matches; U20 Women's National Team - 12 days in camp, 2 friendly matches."

The governing body believes that the two-phase format will help clubs plan better while maintaining player welfare and competitive intensity across the league. East Bengal, the reigning IWL champion, will look to defend their title under the adjusted schedule.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally some good planning! The gap between December and April might be too long though. Hope the momentum doesn't get lost. Still, better than forcing players to choose between national duty and club football.
A
Ananya R
As someone who follows women's football closely, I appreciate this player-centric approach. The national team's performance in Asian Cups is crucial for Indian football's growth. This scheduling shows we're serious about developing women's sports. 💪
D
David E
While I understand the need for flexibility, breaking the league into two phases might affect the competitive rhythm. Hope AIFF has planned proper training camps and friendlies for clubs during the break period to maintain fitness levels.
S
Shreya B
Great move! This shows AIFF is actually listening to clubs and players. Women's football deserves this kind of professional approach. Can't wait to see East Bengal defend their title! 🏆
V
Vikram M
Finally some forward thinking in Indian football administration! This two-phase format will help players manage their workload better. Hope this becomes a regular feature and helps improve our international rankings.

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