Kerala Blasters Football Club (KBFC) has found itself in hot water after temporarily pausing its women's team activities due to economic constraints and a hefty fine imposed by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The AIFF, on 2 June, refused KBFC's appeal against a ₹4 crore fine for the club's misconduct during an Indian Super League (ISL) match against Bengaluru FC.
The controversy burst when the men's team of Kerala Blasters walked out of the match in protest over a disputed goal achieved by Bengaluru FC's Sunil Chhetri. The referee's decision not to blow the whistle before Chhetri took the free kick sparked outrage among the Blasters players, who believed the goal should not have been allowed. Faced with no other option, the club forfeited the match.
However, the fallout from the incident continued to escalate as the AIFF imposed a substantial fine on the club. To make matters worse, KBFC's appeal against the fine was swiftly rejected by the federation. This forced the club to take drastic measures to cover the financial penalty, resulting in the temporary pause of its women's team.
The decision to stop the women's team activities has been met with widespread criticism from various areas of the football community. Manjappada, KBFC's passionate fanbase known as the Yellow Army, expressed their disappointment and disapproval on social media. They condemned the club's management for considering the women's team as a disposable asset in order to meet financial obligations. Using the hashtag #FootballHasNoGender, they emphasized the need for equal treatment and respect for women's football.
The backlash against KBFC's decision extended beyond Indian borders. Swedish goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl, a respected figure in the football world, questioned when women's football would finally receive the full respect it deserves. Indian national women's team goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan voiced her frustration, pointing out the unfairness of using the women's team budget to cover the men's team's fines.
Commentator Kevin Hatchard weighed in, highlighting the importance of long-term commitment and ring-fenced funding for women's teams. He emphasized that women's football should not be treated as a mere checkbox for licensing or public relations but rather as a sustained investment for the future.
The KBFC management, while expressing regret over the temporary pause of the women's team, explained their plans for increased investments in the women's side. These plans included a ground-breaking foreign pre-season tour, player exchanges, and exposure tours to elevate the women's team to new heights. However, the financial sanctions imposed by the AIFF forced the club to reassess its priorities and focus on immediate objectives and long-term financial stability.
Despite the setback, KBFC has reassured everyone that the suspension of the women's team activities is only temporary. They remain committed to reinstating the team once the financial crunch is resolved and all related matters are completely closed. The club hopes to rectify the situation and restore its women's team to continue their journey of achievement and success.
In conclusion, the temporary shutdown of Kerala Blasters' women's team amid financial difficulties and the AIFF fine has stirred significant controversy in the football community. The incident has sparked discussions around gender equality, long-term commitment to women's football, and the need for proper funding and respect for the sport. As fans, players, and hosts voice their concerns, the hope stays that the condition will be resolved, permitting the women's team to reclaim their rightful place on the field and pave the way for a brighter future for women's football in India.
