The Mizoram Football Association (MFA) has imposed significant penalties on three football clubs and 24 players involved in a match-fixing scandal that rocked the Mizoram Premier League (MPL). Following investigations with local law enforcement, the MFA uncovered evidence of corruption during the MPL-11 season.
Clubs and Players Affected
Three clubs have been banned for three years for their involvement in the scandal:
- Sihphir Venghlun FC
- FC Bethlehem
- Ramhlun Athletic FC
Along with the clubs, 24 players have received various penalties:
- Two players have been given lifetime bans
- Four players have been banned for five years
- Ten players have been banned for three years
- Eight players have been banned for one year
Statement from the MFA
The MFA stated that the actions of certain players, officials, and clubs severely undermined the integrity of the sport. “These activities represent a breach of our values, harming the trust of the fans who support Mizoram football,” the MFA declared. The association made it clear that those involved would face strict penalties, with future violations leading to further disciplinary measures.
Impact on Sihphir Venghlun FC
Among the affected clubs, Sihphir Venghlun FC, which reached the semi-finals of the MPL-11 season, was particularly impacted. They lost to eventual champions, Aizawl FC, but their participation in the competition was marred by the match-fixing scandal.
MFA’s Commitment to Transparency
The MFA expressed concern over the potential damage to the league’s reputation but assured fans and stakeholders that the organization remains committed to transparency and integrity. “We are determined to move forward with a clean slate and maintain a fair playing field,” the MFA said in its statement.
Call for Community Support
In light of the scandal, the MFA urged football fans and the broader community to rally behind the association as it works to restore the sport’s reputation in the state. They promised to take further steps to ensure that Mizoram football remains free from corruption.
