Mohun Bagan Super Giant have been officially removed from the AFC Champions League 2 for the second consecutive season after refusing to travel to Iran for their scheduled Group C clash against Sepahan. The Indian Super League double winners cited safety and security concerns as the reason behind their decision not to travel for the away fixture on September 30, 2025.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) confirmed that Mohun Bagan were deemed to have withdrawn from the competition under Article 5.2 of the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26 regulations. The result of their only previous group stage match, a 0-1 defeat against Ahal FK of Turkmenistan, has been declared null and void.
The matter has now been referred to the AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Committee, where possible sanctions such as a fine of at least $50,000 or even suspension from future seasons could be imposed.
This development comes just days after Mohun Bagan approached the Court of Arbitration for Sport, stating that the safety of players, staff, and officials was the prime reason for pulling out of the fixture in Iran. Despite the withdrawal, matches in Iran have continued, with Tractor FC recently hosting Al Wahda FC in an ACL Elite clash in Tabriz without incident.
Fans of Mohun Bagan have expressed divided opinions on social media, with some backing the club’s safety-first stance while others criticized the decision, fearing long-term consequences for the historic club. Critics from Iran, including Sepahan supporters, called the move cowardly, while Iranian football officials insisted the country was safe for international competition.
This marks the second year running that Mohun Bagan have opted out of a fixture in Iran, as they also refused to travel during the 2024 season against Tractor FC. While no heavy sanctions were imposed last year, this latest decision may carry stronger disciplinary actions.
As the AFC deliberates, the future of Mohun Bagan’s participation in continental football remains uncertain.