I-League is described as the topmost level union in the Indian football league structure. In the year 2007-2008, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) started the I-League. The National Football League (NFL) that lasted for around 11 long seasons was replaced by the I-League. For this league, the 2007-08 seasons were actually the first seasons. The first football game under this association was played on 24th of November, 2007. This match was played between the Dempo Sports Club and the Salgaocar Sports Club. The Dempo Sports Club won this match by a margin of three goals.

History of I-League
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) for the 2007-2008 seasons re-launched the national I-League after the decline of the National Football League (NFL). This league was renamed as the I-League. I-League included eight teams as well as two promoted teams from the National Football League. ONGC that previously sponsored the NFL will sponsor the first I-league. The clubs that are under the I-league for the first time were given the permission to register four foreign players.

There are some added incentives for the clubs that are taking part in the I-League. Like for instance for promoting higher attendances as well as for improving the revenues of all the participating clubs ninety per cent of the total gate collection will be given to the host club after the deduction of the stadium hiring charges. The club will be given the charge for selling of the tickets. Moreover, the league will provide funding of around Rs. 250,000 for fielding a team in the Under 19 I-League. It will also provide a financial assistance of almost Rs. 250,000 for the appointment of the administrative staffs. Further, the participating clubs will be provided two edge boards, six boards and six boundary marker level boards at the first row level in the domestic games. The prize money declared for the winners has been tremendously increased. It has been declared Rs. 5 Million while previously it was Rs. 4 Million. Moreover, the Runners-up of the match would receive Rs. 2.8 Million.

For the first division of I-league 2009-2010 season, four major clubs were promoted. These are Shillong Lajong Football Club, Pune Football Club, Viva Kerala and Salgaocar Sports Club.