Mohun Bagan Athletic Club, founded in 1889, is one of the oldest football clubs in the world and the oldest in India. Today, the club is experiencing one of the most challenging periods in its long history. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has issued severe punishment that threatens both the club’s reputation and its future in continental competitions.
Through this blog on 96.com, we explain Mohun Bagan’s AFC ban, fines, official statements, and what fans can expect next.
What Really Happened
Mohun Bagan earned direct qualification to the AFC Champions League Two 2024-25 after winning the ISL League Shield and the ISL Trophy in the 2023-24 season. The team was placed in Group C and began its campaign with a home match against Ahal FC of Turkmenistan, where it suffered a disappointing defeat.
The situation worsened when Mohun Bagan refused to travel to Iran for their away fixture against Sepahan FC, citing security concerns. The AFC had completed all arrangements for the match, and the then-head coach, José Molina, stated that he was willing to travel. However, the club management decided against it, leading to a violation of AFC regulations.
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AFC Punishment
As a result of the refusal to fulfil fixture obligations, the AFC Ethics and Disciplinary Committee took strict action against Mohun Bagan. The club has been:
- Banned from all AFC club competitions for the next two seasons, subject to qualification.
- Fined approximately USD 100,000, which must be paid within 30 days.
- Warned of stricter sanctions if the fine is not cleared within the given timeline.
This is one of the harshest punishments ever imposed on an Indian football club by the AFC.
The Downfall of the Club
Mohun Bagan’s decline on the continental stage has been rapid. The club invested heavily under owner Sanjeev Goenka to build a strong squad capable of performing at the Asian level. Despite their domestic success, the club failed to deliver internationally. Their opening match loss against Ahal FC and the decision to skip the away game against Sepahan FC have now cost them a place in AFC competitions for at least two seasons.
The head coach, José Molina, had expressed his willingness to travel, indicating that the decision to withdraw was taken at the management level, not by the technical staff.
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Statement From Officials
Mohun Bagan president Debashis Dutta expressed his disappointment over the AFC ruling:
“I am extremely disappointed. We need to speak to the authorities immediately. Our secretary, Srinjoy Basu, is currently out of the country, and I want to wait until he returns before taking the next step.”
Sources indicate that the club is considering appealing the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after reviewing all legal and procedural aspects.
What to Expect Next
Mohun Bagan now faces multiple challenges. The immediate priority will be to pay the fine and comply with AFC regulations. The club may also pursue a legal appeal through CAS. In the short term, the team will be barred from participating in AFC competitions, which will impact player morale, club finances, and international exposure.
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For a club with a 136-year history and a proud legacy in Indian football, this represents a historic low point. Fans and members are now watching closely to see how the management responds to this crisis, hoping for transparency, accountability, and strong leadership.
FAQs
Q1: Why was Mohun Bagan banned from AFC competitions?
A: Mohun Bagan was banned for two seasons after refusing to travel for their AFC Champions League Two away match against Sepahan FC, citing security concerns.
Q2: How long is the ban on Mohun Bagan?
A: The club is banned for two AFC seasons, subject to qualification.
Q3: What is the financial penalty for Mohun Bagan?
A: The club must pay $100,000 in fines and compensation within 30 days, or face stricter penalties.
Q4: What triggered the AFC’s strict action?
A: The refusal to play the away match in Iran after all match arrangements were completed prompted the ban.
Q5: Will Mohun Bagan appeal the ban?
A: The club is reportedly considering taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after reviewing all legal aspects.
