Mohun Bagan Faces AFC Ban Over Iran Match Dispute

Indian football club Mohun Bagan Super Giant has been banned from Asian Football Confederation competitions, fined over $100,000, and excluded from upcoming tournaments till 2027-28 for refusing to travel to Iran for a match citing security concerns. The decision is under consideration for an appeal.

Indian football giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant have been slapped with a ban from Asian Football Confederation (AFC) competitions for their refusal to travel to Iran for a match. This decision, announced by the AFC, also imposes fines exceeding $100,000 on the Indian club.

The refusal to participate was driven by a perceived lack of security assurances in Iran, according to club officials. As a result, the AFC's disciplinary committee has excluded Mohun Bagan from participating in any Asian competition they qualify for until the 2027-28 season.

Mohun Bagan, who have players from countries that advise against travel to Iran, previously attempted to have the fixture relocated to a neutral venue. Their appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport was denied, leaving the club considering further appeals against the suspension.

(With inputs from agencies.)