Mohun Bagan Banned and Fined by AFC After Refusing Iran Match

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has handed Mohun Bagan Super Giant a ban from all continental competitions until the 2027–28 season and levied a fine of over $100,000 after the club refused to play an Asian Champions League Two group-stage match in Iran.

The club cited security concerns and the absence of medical insurance coverage as reasons for not traveling to face Sepahan SC. The AFC ruled that Mohun Bagan’s refusal amounted to a withdrawal, resulting in the nullification of their fixtures and financial penalties, including $50,000 in fines and $50,729 to cover losses and damages.

Mohun Bagan had requested a neutral venue and appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but the appeal was rejected. This is the second time the Indian side has skipped a match in Iran due to regional tensions and safety concerns.