ISL names Karan Yadav as CEO under new club-led governance model

The Indian Super League (ISL) has appointed Karan Yadav as Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition as the league shifts toward a club-centric governance model. Yadav assumes the role after serving as Chief Commercial Officer at JSW Sports, where he managed a portfolio exceeding 300 crore rupees across sports franchises, talent management and brand consulting operations.

In his new position, Yadav will assume responsibility for leading the League Office and charting the ISL's strategic, commercial and organisational trajectory. His tenure will be defined by close collaboration with member clubs and the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the sport's governing body in India.

Yadav's mandate encompasses developing the league's overall strategic framework, directing commercial initiatives, strengthening stakeholder relationships and building an efficient League Office infrastructure. His priorities will include fostering alignment with clubs on commercial strategy, managing broadcast partnerships, driving fan engagement and supporting the competition's long-term sustainability and growth prospects.

The appointment underscores the ISL's commitment to professionalising its operations under the new club-led structure, which aims to create greater synergy between the central league office and individual franchises on matters ranging from sponsorships and media rights to player development and supporter engagement.