Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) confirmed that they will not be travelling to Iran for their AFC Champions League group-stage clash against Sepahan SC, scheduled for September 30 in Isfahan. The club has also approached the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to seek a resolution.
The development comes after weeks of uncertainty. On September 23, RevSportz first reported on Mohun Bagan’s reluctance to travel, followed by confirmation earlier this week that all six foreign players — Jason Cummings, Jamie Maclaren, Dimitri Petratos, Alberto Rodríguez, Robson Robinho and Tom Aldred — had opted out, citing safety concerns.
In their official statement, the Green-and-Maroon management said the decision was taken after “careful consideration of the government advisories and the potential uncovered risks involved,” while also stressing that the club “prioritizes the safety and well-being” of players, officials and staff.
Sources close to the story revealed that the club had sent multiple letters to the Indian Embassy in Tehran seeking support and assurances but received no response. Several communications were also made with the AFC, with copies marked to the AIFF, though no assurances were forthcoming. Furthermore, the AFC declined to share a risk-assessment report, even as governments of India, the UK, Spain and Australia continued to advise their citizens against travel to Iran. The club also pointed out that no travel or medical insurance coverage is available in Iran and that existing life insurance policies for individuals become invalid in the country, leaving unanswered questions about accountability in the event of an incident.
In light of these circumstances, a meeting involving all players and Indian staff was held, during which a collective decision was taken not to travel. The management, according to sources, has chosen to fully support the players’ stance, placing their safety and responsibility toward their families above the fixture.
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