The Mizoram government has stepped in to support Aizawl FC and Chanmari FC for the 2025–26 I-League. Both clubs were unable to meet the participation fee deadline on their own. They have informed the All India Football Federation and sought an extension to complete the payment process.

Eligible clubs were asked to deposit around ₹20 lakh by February 2. Ten clubs have confirmed their participation. Eight of them have already paid the required amount. Last season’s runners-up Churchill Brothers have not confirmed participation.

Churchill Brothers continue to maintain that they deserve promotion to the Indian Super League. This is despite losing their case at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The verdict awarded the I-League title and promotion to Inter Kashi. Churchill have made it clear they will not play in the second division.

Chanmari president Vanlalruatfamkima expressed this to AIFF deputy secretary general Satyanarayan M. “We are writing to confirm our participation in this season’s I-League, with our participation fee to be paid by the State Government of Mizoram,”

It further stated, “We are pleased to inform you that we have successfully secured the commitment of our Honourable Sports Minister, Mr. Lalnghinglova Hmar, who has agreed to pay the participation fee on behalf of our club through the State Government.”

Aizawl FC and Chanmari FC had earlier informed AIFF about their financial difficulties. On the deadline day, they approached the Mizoram government for support. The state government gave verbal assurance of financial assistance.

The matter was communicated to AIFF. The federation accepted the request for an extended timeline. The delay was allowed due to standard government administrative procedures.

Both clubs are expected to receive similar financial assistance. The amount is likely to be between ₹20 lakh and ₹25 lakh each. The support is expected to be a one-time measure. It is not intended to set a precedent.

This will be the first time two clubs from Mizoram will compete in the I-League. The move is aimed at ensuring Mizo players continue to get national-level exposure.

Clubs will still have to manage other expenses. The upcoming season will not offer the usual subsidy of around ₹50 lakh. The delayed start has increased the financial burden. The league is expected to kick off on February 21.

Mizoram had 47 players in the I-League last season. This accounted for nearly 15 percent of the total Indian player pool. The number was expected to rise significantly this season with the addition of Chanmari FC.

The state also contributed 37 players to the ISL in 2024–25. It supplied around 34 players to I-League 2 last season. Mizoram continues to be a major talent hub for Indian football.

The I-League will be played in a single-leg home-and-away format. AIFF is also considering a new club-oriented ownership structure. A proposal to rebrand the competition as the Indian Football League is under discussion.

AIFF is yet to decide on relegation from the previous season. The disciplinary committee has not taken a final call on the matter.