Mohun Bagan Super Giant, one of India’s premier football clubs, has been banned from participating in Asian Football Confederation (AFC) competitions for the next two seasons, effectively excluding them from continental tournaments until the 2027–28 season. The club has also been slapped with a fine of USD 100,729 (around ₹91 lakh) for its controversial withdrawal from the 2025–26 AFC Champions League Two group-stage match against Iran’s Sepahan SC.
The AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Committee found Mohun Bagan in breach of competition regulations after the team refused to travel to Iran, citing visa issues and safety concerns for foreign players. The withdrawal came after the group stage had already begun, leaving the club liable for both disciplinary action and compensation claims.
The financial penalty includes USD 50,000 as a direct fine and USD 50,729 to cover losses and damages incurred by the AFC and the Iranian club. In addition, Mohun Bagan must forfeit subsidies and reimburse any funds already received linked to their participation in the tournament.
The club has publicly described the decision as unfair and has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking a reversal of the ruling. However, until a decision is made, the ban remains in effect, denying the Indian side crucial exposure on the continental stage.
This sanction is being seen as a major setback for Indian football, as it deprives one of the country’s top clubs of the opportunity to compete at the highest level in Asia.
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