CHENNAI: India’s top-tier football competition, the Indian Super League (ISL), is set for a delayed start to its 2026 season on February 14 owing to a commercial rights agreement delay between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL).

With the revised timeline, ISL clubs are now racing against time to finalise logistical arrangements, including securing venues, so that the season can proceed smoothly when it finally begins.

In this context, two-time ISL champion Chennaiyin FC have approached the AIFF to request that it engage with the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) to allow the club to use the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on a rent-free basis.

According to a letter issued by the AIFF, six ISL matches are expected to be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium between February and May 2026.

“In view of the current circumstances facing Indian football, and at a time when the collective support of all stakeholders is vital for the continued growth and stability of the sport, the All India Football Federation respectfully requests the support of the SDAT in extending the use of the stadium for the conduct of these six ISL matches on a rent-free basis,” the letter stated.

An SDAT official told DT Next on condition of anonymity that the sports body is yet to receive the request from the AIFF formally and expects to be approached on Monday. Once the communication is received, SDAT will hold discussions with the AIFF and Chennaiyin FC before taking a decision.

Earlier this year, reports circulated online suggested that Chennaiyin FC was considering relocating outside Tamil Nadu following a series of underwhelming seasons and alleged lack of support from the SDAT. However, the state sports body dismissed these claims as entirely baseless.

In 2023, the Tamil Nadu government sanctioned Rs 25 crore for the renovation of the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennaiyin’s home venue. Last year, the club also collaborated with the state government to revamp the stadium’s B Ground, which now serves as its official training facility.