Chengdu Rongcheng issue apology

In the final round of the 2026 Chinese Super League season, Chengdu Rongcheng lost 2-3 away to Shandong Taishan. Despite finishing level on 52 points with Dalian Yingbo, Rongcheng missed out on their first-ever CSL championship due to an inferior head-to-head record and finished as runners-up. On the evening of November 8, Chengdu Rongcheng Football Club published an open letter of apology, expressing regret to the fans, partners, and all who care about the team.

Full Apology Letter:

To all friends who support and care for the club,

The journey of this season has ended, and we regret not being able to stand on the highest podium. Here, Chengdu Rongcheng Football Club would like to say sorry to all our fans, media friends, partners from all walks of life, competition staff, and everyone who has constantly supported us!

We cannot forget the surging cheers at home, nor the singing that never ceased on away trips. We are grateful to the players, fans, staff, partners, media friends, and everyone who has followed us. Thank you for never giving up on us.

There are wins and losses on the field. We acknowledge our shortcomings, respect the outcome, and calmly accept every lesson. We face up to the ups and downs, recognize there is still a gap between us and the expectations of our fans. We will turn today’s regret into motivation to become stronger, and transform all criticisms into the driving force for improvement.

Glory takes repeated tempering; the regrets of today will find their echo in future journeys. We will not waver in our goals because of defeat. Going forward, the club will continue to train hard, optimize team management, improve our competitiveness, and give our best in every match. We aim to respond to your steadfast support with steady progress and set out again towards our goals.

Through wind and rain, our original aspiration does not change. Thank you for choosing understanding and companionship even in moments of loss; this love and trust, whether at home or away, is engraved in our hearts. Please give us a little more time, and continue to stand with us—leave the regrets in yesterday, and let’s write the answers on the pitch.

The climb never stops and our belief remains unbroken. We will start again with determination and courage, self-reflection, and a return to our roots.