In a recent turn of events, Shimla FC’s appeal for the revocation of their 5-year ban has been granted. Tibetan National Sports Association (TNSA), after a board meeting on 4th October, officially pardoned the team, stating the ban was “rescinded and therefore, the team can participate in the GCM tournaments from 2024 onwards,” as reported by Tibetexpress.
This significant decision came after Shimla FC’s unanimous apology, where all team members expressed remorse for their controversial walk-out during the 2022 Gyalyum Chenmo Memorial Gold Cup (GCMGC) final match against Dhondhupling FC. Their letter, submitted on 25th September, cited their omission from the upcoming 2023 GCMGC tournament and forfeiture of the runner-up prize as penalties already paid for their actions.
The contentious incident in question transpired on 24th June during the GCMGC final match. Only 17 minutes into the game, a disputed goal was scored by the DFC captain, which resulted in an immediate uproar. When the referee sided with the DFC team, Shimla FC, as a mark of protest, opted for a walk-out.
Addressing the incident, the TNSA previously announced a stiff penalty against Shimla FC for “misconduct and poor sportsmanship”, withholding their runner-up recognition and banning the players, coach, and manager from GCM events for five years. Nevertheless, Tibetexpress highlighted that TNSA had left a window open, stating they were “willing to revisit its decision if the Shimla team submits an apology letter signed by all the registered players, coach and manager within a month.”
Despite mixed public reactions about the debatable goal, Shimla FC’s statement, as covered by Tibetexpress, acknowledged their error, saying they “concur with the prevailing public view that walking out of the football ground was a mistake.”
Welcoming the team’s accountability, the TNSA responded positively, accepting the apology and urging everyone to ensure “such problems will not occur again in the future.”
With this development, Shimla FC’s future in the GCM tournaments looks brighter, and it’s evident that the power of dialogue and understanding can mend bridges even in the competitive world of sports.
About Post Author
