Kochi – A last-minute reversal by the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has thrown the future of Indian Super League (ISL) matches in Kochi into uncertainty, after initially agreeing to significantly reduce stadium rental fees for Kerala Blasters FC. The GCDA’s executive committee has now decided to increase the rental fee for the Kaloor International Stadium to 4.2 lakh rupees per match, a substantial increase from the initially proposed 2 lakh rupees.
The shift in position comes just days before the start of the ISL season and following discussions about potentially relocating Kerala Blasters’ home matches to Kozhikode due to the high rental costs and ongoing stadium renovations. According to reports from February 5th, the possibility of moving the home ground was being considered due to these factors. But, a softening of stance from the GCDA led to hopes that Kochi would retain hosting rights.
The initial reduction in rent, from 8 crore rupees to 2 crore rupees for nine matches, was intended to alleviate financial pressure on Kerala Blasters. Under the revised agreement, the team would have paid 18 crore rupees for the season. The latest increase threatens to undo that agreement.
Kerala Blasters have yet to receive official notification regarding the increased fee, according to club sources. The club had been exploring the possibility of shifting home games to Kozhikode, but the GCDA’s initial willingness to lower the rental fee for Kaloor Stadium appeared to resolve the issue.
The GCDA’s decision follows a period of controversy surrounding the stadium’s renovation. The authority clarified that the stadium was handed over to a sponsor for renovation operate, including turf upgrades, based on a request from the Sports Minister. The sponsor has committed to completing the renovations by the finish of the month and returning the stadium to the GCDA. The GCDA also stated it had been approached regarding the possibility of hosting a match featuring the Argentinian national team.
The future of the ISL in Kochi now hinges on the outcome of negotiations between Kerala Blasters and the GCDA. As of Saturday, February 21, 2026, the GCDA has not issued a public statement explaining the reversal of its earlier decision.