ISL: Kerala Blasters FC Fined Rs 5-7 Crore for Walkout Against Bengaluru FC

Kerala Blasters FC has been slapped with a hefty fine of Rs 5-7 crore by the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) disciplinary committee for their walkout against Bengaluru FC in the knockout game of the Indian Super League (ISL). The club will not face disqualification from any competition or points deduction from the next edition of the ISL but has been found guilty of the “worst forms of sportsmanship”.

Here are the key details of the fine imposed on Kerala Blasters FC: Kerala Blasters FC Fined Rs 5-7 Crore for Walkout Against Bengaluru FC

1. Violation of Disciplinary Code: The club was reported to the disciplinary committee for violation of Article 58 of the AIFF disciplinary code, which states that the punishment for such an offence is a fine of at least Rs 6 lakh, disqualification from an ongoing competition, and/or expulsion from future competition.
2. Hefty Fine: According to sources, KBFC will have to pay a hefty fine ranging from Rs 5-7 crore for the walkout against Bengaluru FC. This is the heaviest fine imposed by AIFF on any club for a breach of the disciplinary code.
3. No Disqualification or Points Deduction: Despite being found guilty of the “worst forms of sportsmanship,” KBFC will not face disqualification from any competition or a points deduction from the next edition of the ISL.
4. Coach Charged Separately: For defaming the game, KBFC coach Ivan Vukomanovic has been charged separately by the disciplinary committee. The committee has not yet made a conclusion on this matter.
5. Appeal Option: KBFC will be permitted to file an appeal no matter what penalties the AIFF imposes.

It is worth noting that under the ISL League Rule 3.6.4, Kerala Blasters FC is “liable for an additional financial sanction deduction of points and/or suspension by the League from taking any further part in the ISL, depending on the gravity of the incident.” However, it remains to be seen what sanctions the ISL will impose on the club.

The AIFF disciplinary committee has sent a strong message by imposing a hefty fine on Kerala Blasters FC for their walkout against Bengaluru FC. The incident reflects poorly on Indian football and serves as a reminder that sportsmanship and fair play are critical values that must be upheld at all times.

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