CHENNAIYIN FC may be forced to vacate their designated home ground, the Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium in Chennai, ahead of the start of the Indian Super League (ISL) season on 14 February, according to a report by Sportstar.
On 16 January, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) wrote to the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), requesting permission for Chennaiyin FC to host six ISL matches at the JLN Stadium on a rent-free basis. However, the venue’s availability has been thrown into doubt due to a series of non-sporting events scheduled at the stadium.
The JLN Stadium, which is owned and managed by the SDAT, is currently undergoing preparations for a Renault car launch event slated for 26 January. Protective plastic sheets typically used for non-sporting events have been laid over the pitch, while steel structures have been erected on the playing surface, reportedly for a temporary stage. The venue is also set to host a music concert by AR Rahman on 14 February, coinciding with the opening day of the ISL season, placing the two-time champions in a difficult position.
An inspection of the pitch indicates that the surface is currently unsuitable for top-level football, with multiple areas of grass stripped down to the base. No maintenance work is expected to take place until the second half of February, and further deterioration of the surface is anticipated following the two events.
Substantial restoration work will be required to bring the turf up to acceptable playing standards. The SDAT has indicated that it is confident of completing the necessary maintenance by early March.
“We can ensure the playing surface will be ready by March 5 for Chennaiyin to use for the ISL. SDAT will handle the maintenance cost to get the surface ready,” JLN Stadium officer P Venkatesh told Sportstar.
If the timeline holds, Chennaiyin FC will be unable to host home matches until March. The club is currently exploring alternative venues within Tamil Nadu, as well as other stadiums outside the state that have previously hosted ISL fixtures.
Since the club’s inception in 2014, Chennaiyin FC have played their home matches at the JLN Stadium, apart from the two Covid-19-affected seasons between 2020 and 2022.
