Four Private Firms Show Interest in IWL Commercial Rights, Signalling Boost for Women’s Football

Four private companies have expressed interest in acquiring the commercial rights for the Indian Women’s League (IWL) first and second divisions for the next five years, marking a promising development for women’s football in India. The companies include JSW Group, owners of Indian Super League club Bengaluru FC, Capri Sports, Leisure Sports, and Shrachi Sports. While none have officially submitted their bids yet, all four entities have initiated the process by sending queries after the All India Football Federation (AIFF) floated the tender earlier this month.

A source familiar with the process confirmed their involvement, stating, “The four companies have already participated in pre-bid meeting (with the AIFF) though they are yet to officially submit their bids.” Their interest stands out, particularly at a time when the men’s top-tier Indian Super League failed to attract any takers for its commercial rights.

The growing attention around the IWL also reflects an encouraging year for Indian women’s football. All three national teams—Senior, U20, and U17—qualified for their respective Asian Cups for the first time in more than two decades. Additionally, a residential academy for girls has been launched, and East Bengal delivered an impressive showing at the AFC Women’s Champions League.

The AIFF issued the Request for Proposal (RFP) on November 14, with the bid submission deadline set for November 29. Under the RFP, bidders must meet a minimum net worth of ₹30 crore for 2024–2025, while consortiums must cumulatively meet ₹100 crore. The selected rights holder will owe a “Guaranteed Payment” of ₹3 crore or 5% of gross revenues, whichever is higher, along with a security deposit of ₹3 lakh.

The commercial rights package covers advertising, broadcasting, film, merchandising, sponsorship, production, and related media, though the AIFF will retain all data rights. The evaluation process will take place in two stages—technical and commercial. Only bidders scoring at least 50% in the technical round will progress, and the highest financial offer will usually win.

The chosen rights holder will also serve as the title sponsor and be responsible for producing and distributing match coverage through an experienced broadcast platform. Net revenues will be shared, with the rights holder receiving 40% and the AIFF 60%. Of the AIFF’s share, 70% will go to IWL clubs and 20% to IWL 2 clubs, leaving just 10% for the federation.

The upcoming IWL season will be staged in two phases: December 20 to January 6, 2026, and April 20 to May 10. Matches will be played in Kolkata and Kalyani, with the league reverting to a single-leg format due to fewer matchdays.