Mohun Bagan Withdraws from AFC Champions League 2 Following Players’ Refusal to Travel to Iran

Indian football powerhouse Mohun Bagan has officially withdrawn from the AFC Champions League 2 after six of its foreign players declined to travel to Iran due to safety concerns. The club has now approached the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) seeking a fair resolution amid potential sanctions.

The team was scheduled to play an away match against Sepahan FC on September 30 but had to cancel the trip after the overseas players cited travel advisories from their respective countries. According to a club official, a meeting involving all players and Indian staff resulted in a collective decision not to travel.

“All six foreign players have opted out of the trip following government advisories. The club fully supports the players’ decision,” the official told PTI.

With Iran currently experiencing heightened tensions due to its conflict with Israel, Mohun Bagan sought written assurances from the AFC regarding player safety. Sources close to the club revealed that the AFC failed to provide such guarantees, prompting the team to prioritize the well-being of its players and staff.

Several communications were sent to the AFC, copied to the All India Football Federation (AIFF), but no satisfactory response was received. Consequently, the club convened a meeting with all players and staff and collectively decided not to travel.

Mohun Bagan stated on social media, “MBSG prioritizes the safety and well-being of its players, officials, and support staff. Considering government advisories and potential risks, and respecting the players’ sentiments, the club has approached CAS to seek a fair resolution and safeguard its interests.”

Previously, the Mariners had requested the AFC to shift the match against Sepahan SC out of Iran citing security concerns. Mohun Bagan lost their ACL 2 opener to Ahal FK at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on September 16.

Failure to appear for an AFC Champions League fixture could result in sanctions that jeopardize the participation of Indian clubs in future tournaments. Last season, Mumbai City FC played in Tehran without key foreign players, and Mohun Bagan had also faced withdrawal penalties for not traveling to Iran to face Tractor SC due to political tensions.

The debate continues: Was Mohun Bagan right to prioritize player safety, or should they have honored the fixture despite the risks?