The problems and crises in Indian football show no signs of easing. Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) has been hit with a two-season continental ban and fines totaling USD 100,729 (approximately INR 91 lakh) after withdrawing from the 2025-26 AFC Champions League Two (ACL 2), highlighting ongoing challenges for Indian clubs on the Asian stage.
The AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Committee ruled that the reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions wrongfully withdrew from the competition following their refusal to travel to Iran for a group-stage clash against Sepahan SC. As a result, Mohun Bagan has been banned from participating in AFC club competitions for two seasons — up to and including the 2027-28 campaign — and fined heavily.
AFC Sanctions on Mohun Bagan are Two-season ban from AFC club competitions (up to and including 2027-28), USD 50,000 fine for group-stage withdrawal, USD 50,729 fine to Foolad Mobarakeh Sepahan SC and AFC for damages, Return of USD 300,000 participation fee, if already received
The sanctions stem from MBSG citing the unavailability of visas for key foreign players, including forwards Jamie Maclaren and Jason Cummings, as the reason for their refusal to travel to Iran.
This is the second consecutive season Mohun Bagan has withdrawn from an ACL 2 group-stage match in Iran. Last season, the club had refused to play against Tractor Sports Club amid political tensions in Iran following ballistic missile strikes on Israel. At that time, the AFC had recognized it as a case of force majeure, and the club avoided major penalties.
For context, the fines imposed now — totaling over INR 3.6 crore — exceed the INR 3.5 crore prize money Mohun Bagan earned for winning the ISL Shield, which also secured their spot in Asian competitions.
The AFC’s decision, taken during the Disciplinary and Ethics Committee meeting on December 17, 2025, signals strict enforcement against withdrawals, sending a stern warning to Indian clubs participating in continental competitions.
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