In a massive reprieve for FC Goa, the appeals panel of ISL on Friday revoked the 15-point penalty imposed on the club for "bringing disrepute" to the event following last year's final besides reducing the Rs 11 crore fine and lifting the ban on the franchise owners.
In an unprecedented decision in May, FC Goa were slapped with a fine of Rs 11 crore, which was on Friday, reduced to Rs 6 crore, while co-owners Srinivas Dempo and Dattaraj Salgaocar also saw their bans being revoked. The outfit had also been docked 15 points even before the start of season three.
However, the Indian Super League Regulatory Commission reconsidered the decision after an appeal made by Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), a joint venture between IMG-Reliance and Star India, and FC Goa.
The final of the 2015 edition of the ISL was marred by violence and controversy when players and officials of FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC engaged in scuffles after the conclusion of the match, with the Goans also boycotting the prize distribution ceremony.
The dispute ensued after FC Goa alleged that Chennaiyin FC captain and marquee player Elano Blumer had assaulted their co-owner Dattaraj Salgaocar, prompting a boycott of the prize distribution ceremony by the Goan club.
"Since it was a first time offence and based on the regret letters received, the Appeals Panel has revoked the respective bans on the owners."
