The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced Star Cement as the title sponsor of the Indian Football League, in a move that strengthens the league’s commercial framework and signals renewed momentum for the competition within India’s professional football ecosystem.
Under the agreement, Star Cement will serve as the league’s principal commercial partner for the 2025–26 season, with its branding integrated across the competition’s marketing initiatives, stadium assets, and digital platforms. The partnership also represents the first title sponsorship secured by the league following its recent rebranding, marking an important step in the AIFF’s efforts to enhance the competition’s visibility and financial sustainability.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr M. Satyanarayan, Deputy Secretary General, All India Football Federation, said, “This partnership with Star Cement represents an important milestone for the Indian Football League. As we work to strengthen the structure and commercial sustainability of the competition, such collaborations provide the support needed to take the league forward. We believe this association will play a valuable role in elevating the profile of the competition and supporting the continued growth of football in India.”
Mr Pradeep Purohit, Chief Operating Officer, Star Cement, added, “As a leading corporate house from the Northeast, Star Cement has always believed in supporting platforms that reflect strength, resilience, and community spirit. Sport has been an important part of our brand philosophy, and through initiatives such as our ‘Har Ghar Mein Star’ campaign, we have consistently associated with athletes and sporting personalities. Our association with the Indian Football League brings strong synergy between our brand values and the vision of the league. We are happy and privileged to come on board as the title sponsor and look forward to a meaningful and long-term association with AIFF and the league.”
Formerly known as the I-League, the Indian Football League entered a new phase following its rebranding for the 2025–26 season. The competition currently features ten clubs and is being played under a revised two-stage format. The season kicked off on February 27, 2026, with teams first competing in a home-and-away round-robin league phase before the standings split into championship and relegation groups.
Promotion to the Indian Super League remains a key incentive for participating clubs. The league is also being broadcast through official partners Doordarshan and WAVES, further expanding its reach to football audiences across the country.
As part of India’s wider professional football structure, the Indian Football League continues to play an important role in developing clubs, nurturing talent and strengthening the sport’s competitive pyramid. The addition of Star Cement as title sponsor is expected to support the league’s operational growth, enhance fan engagement initiatives and reinforce its commercial positioning.
With the partnership now in place, the Indian Football League enters the season with renewed backing as it aims to build a stronger foundation for the future of domestic football in India.
