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| 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]
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.
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:
A total of 61 matches will be played in the inaugural edition. [4]
The final list of franchises is yet to be announced. Each team will represent a district and may be based out of: [5]
Four stadiums will be shortlisted among the following:
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]
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]
The official logo of BSL was unveiled at the launch event. It represents competitive spirit, grassroots energy, and Bengal’s rich footballing legacy. [4]
Prominent personalities present during the unveiling included:
The BSL was conceptualised with the following aims:
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.
| National teams |
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| League system |
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| Cup competitions |
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| Defunct competitions |
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| Sports complexes | |||||||||
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