New Delhi: The Sports Ministry has written to FIFA and AFC requesting permission for Gokulam Kerala FC and ATK Mohun Bagan to play in AFC tournaments. With FIFA banning All India Football Federation (AIFF), Indian clubs are unable to play in foreign countries.
The ban comes after Gokulam’s women’s team arrived in Uzbekistan for the AFC Championship. With this, Gokulam cannot participate in the games on 23rd and 26th of this month. Following this, the Ministry of Sports has sent a letter to FIFA and AFC requesting immediate intervention. ATK also has a game in the AFC Cup on September 7.
Officials stated that the Ministry of Sports is in contact with the Gokulam women’s team in Uzbekistan and has instructed the embassy to provide necessary assistance.