I-League 2022-23 season to kick off on November 12

A total of 12 teams will participate in the competition this year.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) have announced that the 2022-23 edition of the I-League will start on November 12, 2022. A total of twelve teams are slated to participate in the league.

In a release, the parent football body also said that "while the fixtures of the are ready, its official declaration is being held back subject to resolving certain issues. As the league is back to its usual format of Home and Away matches this season, six I-League clubs are facing various infrastructural issues and are getting ready to host matches on identified venues.

"At the same time, the AIFF is currently in active discussion with its marketing partners to finalise the official broadcasters, which will enhance the value of viewing experience and help taking the league to every nook and corner of the country. The AIFF hopes to settle the key issues at the earliest before announcing the fixtures."

Earlier, it was announced that the I-League 2022-23 would kick-off on October 29. However, the date has now been pushed back. Among the 12 teams that will participate in the league this season is also Kenkre FC, who were relegated last season, but have been allowed to play in the I-League this season as well.

This season will also see an increase in the number of foreigners from a total of five to six in I-League teams. While teams will still be allowed to field only four foreigners in the playing XI including an Asian quota player, they can have six foreigners in the matchday squad.

This season is also likely to see the return of promotion and relegation in the Indian football tier system. As stated in the 2019 roadmap, the winner of this season's I-League is likely to be promoted to the Indian Super League, while the two teams relegated will move to the Second Division I-League. Two teams from the Second Division I-League is also likely to earn promotion to the I-League.