oi-Sauradeep Ash

The tension between Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) and the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) has escalated following a disciplinary ruling that will see the iconic club play its next home match in an empty stadium.

The AIFF Disciplinary Committee recently charged the club over alleged spectator misconduct during a high-octane encounter against Kerala Blasters.

While the club has moved quickly to take responsibility for the financial aspects of the ruling, they have drawn a firm line regarding the exclusion of their supporters for the upcoming fixture against Odisha FC, scheduled for March 6, 2026.

In a recently issued press release, Mohun Bagan clarified that while they do not contest the financial penalty, they view the total lockout of fans as an excessive measure. The club stated that they accepted the fine as a gesture of “good faith” and responsibility toward maintaining decorum in the league. However, the decision to ban entry to the stadium for the general public has been met with significant resistance from the club management.

Expressing their frustration, the club’s official statement noted, “We are deeply disappointed with the AIFF Disciplinary Committee’s decision to impose a full stadium closure for our home fixture on 6 March 2026.”

The club believes that the atmosphere of Indian football depends on the presence of its supporters and that such drastic measures could dampen the spirit of the game.

“While we have accepted the financial penalty in good faith, we believe closing the stadium unfairly punishes thousands of passionate, law-abiding supporters who are the heartbeat of our Club,” a release from MBSG read on Tuesday.

In an effort to mediate, Mohun Bagan Super Giant formally appealed to the AIFF to reconsider the stadium closure, however, the governing body has reportedly stood by its original decision, leaving the club with no choice but to prepare for a silent stadium on March 6.

Confirming the outcome of their appeal, the club shared: “Our appeal to reconsider this decision in the interest of our fans has not been accepted.”

The club concluded its response by simply stating that, “Football belongs to the fans. They deserve better.”

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