Chennaiyin FC is likely to be forced out of its designated home stadium, the Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium, in Chennai ahead of the start of the Indian Super League (ISL) season on February 14.
The Nehru Stadium, owned by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu, is currently undergoing implementation works for a Renault car launch event scheduled for January 26.
Plastic sheeting, typically used for non-sporting events, is laid to protect the playing surface prior to the event. Several steel structures are also being built on the field for what appears to be a makeshift stage.
The venue will also play host to artist AR Rahman’s music concert on February 14, which will mark the start of the ISL campaign, which sees the two-time champions in hot water.
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A closer look at the turf shows that the surface is currently not suitable for top-level football, because several areas of grass have been razed to the ground. Although the playing field is not expected to undergo maintenance work until the second half of February, further wear and tear is expected to occur in the aftermath of both events. It is learned that the field maintenance staff of Chennaiyin was dismissed by the event organizers on Wednesday.
A closer look at the turf shows that the surface is currently not suitable for top-level football, because several areas of grass have been razed to the ground. | Photo credit: Aashin Prasad
A closer look at the turf shows that the surface is currently not suitable for top-level football, because several areas of grass have been razed to the ground. | Photo credit: Aashin Prasad
Significant work will be required to bring the playing surface up to a safe standard, which SDAT is expected to deliver in the first week of March.
“We can ensure that the playing surface will be ready for Chennaiyin to use for the ISL by March 5,” said JLN Stadium Officer P. Venkatesh. Sports stars. “SDAT will bear the maintenance costs to prepare the surface,” he added.
This would mean that Chennaiyin cannot play its home matches until March.
Chennaiyin is exploring alternative venues within the state and also other stadiums, which were previously used for ISL matches, outside the state as well.
«It has always been Chennaiyin FC’s intention to be based in Chennai, and our continued investment in Tamil Nadu football since 2014 reflects that commitment. We do not want to look at alternative venues, but ensuring safe and good playing conditions, along with sustainable costs for hosting matches, is essential. We are in dialogue with the relevant authorities and remain hopeful of receiving the necessary support so that we can continue to build a club that Chennai and Tamil Nadu can truly call their own,» a senior club official said. publication.
Since its inception in 2014, Chennaiyin has played its home matches at this venue, with the exception of the two Covid-19 imposed campaigns between 2020 and 2022.
Published on January 21, 2026
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