Erchim FC Refuse MPL Participation

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Just when it seemed that the MFF, MPL, clubs, and the player's association had resolved the issues that caused lengthy delays and public disputes last season, it may all be ready to start again.

In a letter published on social media on 19 September, the day before the 25/26 MPL season's first match, Erchim FC announced that the club had refused its spot in the MPL this season.

Mongolia's storied powerhouse cited the following reasons for its withdrawal:

1. the MFF and its wildly unpopular president Ochir being too heavily involved in the league

2. Questions regarding if a qualified agency had been hired to manage and organize the league and the negation of the contract with Penta Sports, last season's organizer

3. Whether the allegations of illegal behavior such as theft, fraud, and match fixing had been sufficiently addressed and the appropriate safeguards taken

4. The unprofessional and rushed start to the 25/26 season.

Last season, all leagues in Mongolia were suspended for over a month because of these allegations. Eventually, the clubs took over management of the league's themselves to finish the season.

The 25/26 MPL season kicked off 20 September with reigning champs SP Falcons defeating Deren FC 2-0. It has been announced that Ulaangom City FC will fill the hole in the table left by Erchim's departure. Ulaangom City finished second in the First League last season but had missed out on promotion via a heavy defeat to Central Stallions in the promotion/relegation playoffs.

While Erchim FC is the only club so far to be boycotting the league and federation so heavily, it remains likely that we will see other similar actions by other clubs as the season progresses.