Finally, the AFC have made a decision and sent their reply to Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan. A decision has been taken by the AFC Competitions Committee which have acknowledged the concerns raised by the club in not traveling Iran to face Tractor FC. The pull out by the Mariners is deemed as a force majeure, in spite of that, the club is considered to have withdrawn from the AFC Champions League Two.
Previously, Mohun Bagan decided not to travel to Iran to play their second group stage match of the AFC Champions League Two against Tractor. The Green and Maroon brigade submitted a written petition signed by 35 players and staff who didn’t want to travel to the war torn country citing safety and security concerns.
While the remaining matches in Iran were transferred to a neutral venue, the AFC in a shambolic decision decided to withdraw Mohun Bagan from the tournament for not turning up. The club immediately appealed the AFC Competitions Committee citing their concerns.
While there were doubts about fines and sanctions to be levied on the club, but those doubts have now been put to rest. The AFC has acknowledged the club’s legitimate reason in not travelling. AFC further ensured no fines would be levied but as per the rules, the Mariners will remain withdrawn from the tournament.
Mohun Bagan Statement
“On 2nd November 2024, Mohun Bagan Super Giant has been communicated by the Asian Football Federation (AFC) that in response to the club’s appeal, the AFC Competitions Committee has decided to recognise the matters raised by Mohun Bagan SG as an event of force majeure,”
“Consequently penal consequences, as per clause 5.7 of AFC Champions League 2 Competition Regulations shall not apply to Mohun Bagan SG. However, in terms of AFC Champions League 2 Competition Regulation clauses 5.5 and 5.6 even in case of force majeure events MBSG shall stand withdrawn from the tournament for ongoing season.” Mohun Bagan SG were scheduled to play Tractor FC on October 2 in a Group A match of the ACL — the continent’s second-tier club competition“
