Changchun Xidu FC have been fined 30,000 yuan (£3,070 / $4,100) by the Chinese Professional Football League (CFL) after placing what were described as “feudal superstitious items” in the away team’s dressing room prior to a recent league match.

The incident occurred before Changchun’s fixture against Shanxi Chongde Ronghai on June 28, in China League Two, the third tier of Chinese football.

According to an official statement from the CFL, the club violated both Article 115 and Article 116 of the league’s Discipline and Ethics Code.

The controversy began when photos surfaced online showing yellow paper charms decorated with ritualistic inscriptions. One reportedly read: “By decree, Shanxi Chongde Ronghai must be defeated.”

These items were found inside the away dressing room and widely shared across Chinese social media platforms, prompting an investigation by the league.

In its ruling, the CFL said it would “resolutely and seriously deal with all kinds of violations of regulations and disciplines”, reaffirming a commitment to maintaining the professionalism and integrity of the sport.

“This is in place to purify the atmosphere of the stadium, and for all participants to jointly maintain the order of the game and hard-won environment,” the league added.

Despite the incident, Changchun Xidu won the match 2-0, strengthening their position near the top of the China League Two standings. They currently sit second in the table as they chase promotion.

However, the fine and reputational damage could cast a shadow over their strong campaign.

The episode also reflects broader concerns in Chinese football, where the sport has grappled with governance issues, financial instability, and declining public trust in recent years.