Bengal Super League
| Organising body | Indian Football Association (West Bengal) |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2025 |
| First season | 2025–26 |
| Country | India |
| Confederation | AFC |
| Number of clubs | 8 |
| Level on pyramid | 3 (proposed) |
| Most championships | TBD |
| Current: 2025–26 Bengal Super League | |
The Bengal Super League (BSL) is a professional football league in the Indian state of West Bengal, organized by the Indian Football Association (West Bengal). Established in July 2025, the league features district-based franchise teams and is structured to develop grassroots and semi-professional football in the state.[1][2]
History
The league was officially launched on 8 July 2025 at The Lalit Great Eastern, Kolkata, by the IFA in association with sports management firm Shrachi Sports.[3] The goal is to create a structured footballing pathway for district-level talent and professionalize football in Bengal beyond Kolkata.
Structure and Format
The BSL will follow a franchise-based model similar to other Indian leagues like the Indian Super League. Eight teams representing different districts will participate in the inaugural season (2025–26). Each team will field a 25-member squad, with up to 3 foreign players permitted.
The tournament format includes:
- Double round-robin league stage (home & away)
- Two semi-finals
- A grand final
A total of 61 matches will be played in the inaugural edition.[4]
Teams
The final list of franchises is yet to be announced. Each team will represent a district and may be based out of:
- Siliguri
- Durgapur
- Malda
- Krishnanagar
- Berhampore
- Haldia
- Barasat
- Naihati[5]
Stadiums
Four stadiums will be shortlisted among the following:
- Kanchenjunga Stadium, Siliguri
- Bhagat Singh Stadium, Durgapur
- Barasat Stadium
- Malda District Stadium
- Berhampore Stadium
- Krishnanagar Stadium
- Naihati Stadium
- Haldia Stadium[2]
Players and Draft
Each team will build its squad via a player draft system. Local talent from district and state-level competitions will be eligible. The draft will also allow selection of international players and seasoned professionals.[1][6]
Broadcast and Media
The league will be broadcast live on Zee Bangla Cinema, with digital streaming on the Zee network. Zee is also the media partner for BSL and will run extensive promotional campaigns.[7]
Branding and Logo
The official logo of BSL was unveiled at the launch event. It represents competitive spirit, grassroots energy, and Bengal’s rich footballing legacy.[4]
Notable Guests at Launch
Prominent personalities present during the unveiling included:
- Ajit Banerjee – President, IFA
- Anirban Dutta – Secretary, IFA
- Subrata Dutta – Sr. VP, AIFF
- Rahul Todi – MD, Shrachi Sports
- Shyam Thapa, Syed Rahim Nabi, Mehtab Hossain, Asim Biswas (former players)[6]
Objectives
The BSL was conceptualised with the following aims:
- To professionalise district football structures in Bengal
- Create a robust feeder system for national leagues
- Boost local infrastructure and fan base
- Generate commercial investment in rural football ecosystems[5]
Reception
Football experts and local fans have welcomed the BSL as a long-needed structural reform for Bengal football. Critics have raised concerns about sustainability and talent retention beyond Kolkata.
See also
References
- ^ a b "The Bengal Super League officially launched, tournament will develop district football". Anandabazar Patrika. 8 July 2025.
- ^ a b "Bengal Super League: District-centric professional football league announced". Ei Samay. 8 July 2025.
- ^ "Grand official launch of Bengal Super League". Aajkaal. 8 July 2025.
- ^ a b "Bengal Super League logo unveiled". Sangbad Pratidin. 8 July 2025.
- ^ a b "Franchise-based inter-district action to rock Bengal football". RevSportz. 8 July 2025.
- ^ a b "Shrachi Sports launches Bengal Super League with Zee". Anando Sangbad Live. Retrieved 9 July 2025.
- ^ "Zee to broadcast Bengal Super League". Zee News. 8 July 2025.