Football fans should mark 17 May 2025 on their calendars in red, as the much-anticipated Kolkata derby between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC is set to take place on that day. Originally scheduled for May 3, the high-voltage clash had to be postponed due to the announcement of election results the following day. Given the security challenges surrounding such a major fixture, authorities decided it was not feasible to proceed as planned. As a result, the iconic “Maharan” will now kick off on Sunday, May 17, at 7:30 PM. However, it is not only the derby that has been affected by the West Bengal elections, as several fixtures in Kolkata have been moved, causing a shake-up of the entire calendar.
Revised Fixtures Due to Elections
Before the derby, both teams have several crucial matches to play. Many believe that if they maintain strong form leading up to May 17, the derby could play a decisive role in the title race. However, the election dates in West Bengal on April 23 and 29, have caused multiple changes in the ISL schedule. Under the previous fixture list, East Bengal was set to face Inter Kashi on May 17, 2026. That fixture has now been postponed by a week. Their final league match at home is now on May 24, 2026. The Red and Yellow brigade was also slated to face Odisha FC on April 28 at the Fatorda Stadium in Goa. However, sources suggest that official permission is still pending. The match against Mumbai City FC is now scheduled for May 5 at the Football Arena. Meanwhile, their rivals, Mohun Bagan, have also seen their face-off against promoted side Inter Kashi, managed by their ex-boss Antonio López Habas, originally scheduled for April 24 at Yuva Bharati Stadium, has been moved to May 11. The ISL league stage is expected to conclude on May 24, with Mohun Bagan potentially facing Sporting Delhi, though this fixture has not yet been officially confirmed by the federation.
Clubs Face Federation Warning Over Fees
Off the field, tensions are rising between ISL clubs and the All India Football Federation. Several clubs have reportedly failed to pay the required participation fee of ₹30 lakh by the March 5 deadline. As per regulations, a penalty of ₹1 lakh per day applies until the dues are cleared. Sources indicate that Mohun Bagan and Kerala Blasters are among those yet to make the payment. The federation has issued a strict warning, asking clubs to settle their dues by April 5, failing which further action may follow. However, the federation has since granted an extension, with the clubs now having their deadline set on May 1, 2025.
