In a bizarre twist from the world of Chinese football, a third-division club has landed in hot water — not for a hard tackle or foul play on the pitch, but for what they did off it.
Changchun Xidu FC, a club currently sitting near the top of China League Two, has been fined 30,000 yuan (approx. £3,070 or $4,100) after it was discovered that they had placed ‘feudal superstitious items’ in the away team’s dressing room before a league match against Shanxi Chongde Ronghai on June 28.
The Chinese Professional Football League (CFL) didn’t mince words in its official statement, saying the club had violated both Article 115 and Article 116 of the league’s Discipline and Ethics Code by engaging in behavior aimed at influencing the game through non-sporting means.
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What Were the ‘Feudal Superstitious Items’?
According to a report by Shanghai’s City News Service, viral images circulating online captured yellow paper charms, traditionally used in Taoist rituals, scattered across the room. These charms allegedly bore inscriptions like: “By decree, Shanxi Chongde Ronghai must be defeated.”
These actions have been labeled by the CFL as an attempt to create a psychological disadvantage — or worse, an “unclean” competitive atmosphere — for the visiting side.
League Stands Firm on Discipline
The CFL emphasized that it will continue to crack down on any non-sporting misconduct, stating: “The CFL will resolutely and seriously deal with all kinds of violations of regulations and disciplines… to purify the atmosphere of the stadium.”
The message is clear: Chinese football is on a path to professionalization, and superstition will not be tolerated — no matter how harmless or humorous it may seem.
The Irony? Changchun Xidu Won the Match
Despite the controversial tactics, Changchun Xidu walked away with a 2-0 victory — a result that now carries an air of scandal. While there’s no suggestion the charms influenced the actual outcome, the timing certainly raised eyebrows.
The incident has sparked national debate, not just about superstition in sports, but also about the challenges the Chinese football system continues to face as it strives for international respectability.
A League Still in Transition
While once flush with money and ambition — remember Carlos Tevez’s £600k-a-week salary? — Chinese football has spent recent years restructuring amid financial instability and a push for greater integrity. Episodes like this serve as a reminder of the deep-rooted cultural quirks still embedded within some corners of the game.
Chinese Football and Superstition: Not an Isolated Incident?
While this incident is one of the more publicized examples, superstition in sports is not unique to China. However, in the context of Chinese football’s professional evolution, it strikes a nerve — reminding fans and officials alike that cultural customs must now align with a code of professionalism.
The Changchun Xidu episode is a striking reminder of how football intersects with culture, and how the beautiful game continues to evolve in China. As the CFL tightens its grip on discipline, one thing is clear — it’s not just about winning anymore, but how you win.
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FAQs
What was Changchun Xidu FC fined for?
For placing feudal superstitious items in the away team’s dressing room.
How much was the fine?
30,000 yuan (£3,070 / $4,100).
What were the items?
Yellow paper charms with messages calling for the defeat of Shanxi Chongde Ronghai.
Did Changchun Xidu win the match?
Yes, they won 2-0.
Why is this a big issue?
The CFL aims to remove non-sporting influences and maintain professional standards in Chinese football.
