Tashkent's Bunyodkor football club has received financial assistance totaling 5 billion soums just days after announcing it could not travel for a Super League match due to lack of funds. The club confirmed the aid in an official statement.

According to the club, the funds were allocated based on a presidential decree dated March 24, 2026, aimed at improving sports financing mechanisms and attracting business investment. The management stated that the team will now continue preparations for upcoming league matches as planned.

Earlier, Bunyodkor sent a letter to the Professional Football League stating it could not travel to Navoi region for the 15th round Super League match against Qizilqum, scheduled for August 2. The reason cited was financial constraints: no money for tickets, hotel accommodation, and meals for players and staff.

Under regulations, failure to appear would result in a technical defeat, and a repeat could lead to expulsion from the tournament. This posed a serious threat to the club's standing.

The club's financial troubles have already sparked fan discontent. In July, supporters displayed a banner reading 'Aliyev Out' during a match, demanding the resignation of CEO Murod Aliyev. The protest was a reaction to years of mismanagement and funding issues.

One of the biggest problems remains a substantial debt to former players Rivaldo and Denilson, who played for Kuruvchi in 2008–2010. In 2024, FIFA's disciplinary committee ordered Bunyodkor to pay approximately 9.2 million euros in arrears that originated during the Zeromax era.

The club later agreed with Rivaldo on a phased repayment plan until 2028, but the schedule was not met. After funding from Uzbekneftegaz ceased, the next installment was not made, and FIFA imposed a transfer ban until the situation is fully resolved.

Meanwhile, internal financial difficulties persist: players and staff have not received salaries for several months, and the search for a new funding source remains unresolved.

Source: podrobno.uz