The Shooting League of India (SLI) is scheduled to take place from February 16 to 26, 2026. This announcement follows the prior confirmation that the inaugural SLI would be moved to early 2026. The final dates have been chosen to align with the International Shooting Sport Federation's (ISSF) 2026 calendar, thereby avoiding conflicts with major international competitions.
The SLI marks the country's first franchise-based league dedicated to Olympic shooting and is backed by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) and supported by the ISSF. The league aims to promote shooting sports through a high-profile, competitive platform. The tournament is expected to feature both top Indian and international athletes competing across various events in a league-style format. The categories include 10m air pistol, 25m pistol, 10m air rifle, 50m rifle three positions, as well as trap and skeet.
NRAI President Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo stated that the SLI is a milestone for the sport, built on a franchise model with an athlete-first approach, and aligned with the global calendar to maximize participation. The league aims to showcase high-quality shooting action, offering fans an opportunity to watch some of the world's best athletes compete head-to-head. The matches will be fast-paced, lasting only 25 minutes and following a 16-point format without qualifications. To enhance the viewing experience, statistics such as heart rate monitoring and SCATT shooting data will be utilized, offering insights into the athletes' movements, trigger releases, mannerisms, pressure, and biorhythms through graphics and VR.
Each franchise will consist of 12 athletes, with an equal number of men and women. Teams can include up to four foreign players, with a maximum of two men and two women. Each team must also include at least two Indian junior athletes, and the purse per team is ₹1.20 crore.
The SLI is designed to bring shooting into the national spotlight, blending world-class sport with entertainment and aiming to turn athletes into icons. The league features mixed-team formats and aims to create compelling storylines. The SLI aspires to deliver a world-class opening season, welcoming international stars and inspiring the next generation of Indian shooters.
