Goa: In a blow to Kerala Blasters FC, their appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the fine imposed by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has been dismissed. The club now faces the task of paying AIFF Rs 4 crore for their controversial 'walkout' during an Indian Super League (ISL) match against Bengaluru FC last season.
CAS, the global authority on sports-related disputes, upheld AIFF's decision, leaving Kerala Blasters with a two-week deadline to settle the financial penalty. The ruling also includes covering AIFF's legal expenses incurred during the proceedings.
Kerala Blasters had argued that communication issues within the management led to the walkout, seeking leniency under AIFF and ISL ethics rules. However, CAS sided with AIFF's disciplinary committee, which had accused coach Ivan Vukomanovic of "bringing the game into disrepute" by instructing the team to abandon the match after a contentious refereeing decision.
Efforts were made to reason with Vukomanovic during the match, with referee Crystal John and match commissioner Amit Dharap intervening. Despite this, the disciplinary committee maintained its stance, imposing the Rs 4 crore fine for violating fair play, respect, and integrity principles.
The CAS ruling serves as a setback for Kerala Blasters, underscoring the importance of upholding sportsmanship and adherence to regulations in professional football.
