Malaysian football body challenges FIFA penalties over naturalised players at CAS after appeal loss.
THE Football Association of Malaysia has announced its intention to challenge FIFA’s September sanctions at the Court of Arbitration for Sport following the world governing body’s rejection of its initial appeal.
Acting president Datuk Yusoff Mahadi confirmed the decision in an official statement after FAM received comprehensive written reasoning behind FIFA’s dismissal of their appeal submission.
Earlier reports indicated that FIFA would conduct an inquiry into FAM regarding the naturalisation controversy and had criticised the association for allegedly protecting individuals responsible for submitting fraudulent documentation.
FIFA’s written decision also included a recommendation for Malaysian authorities to launch their own investigation into the matter.
Yusoff stated that FAM would “initiate the process of raising this case at the CAS,” emphasising the association’s commitment to pursuing what it considers fair treatment.
“This will ensure that justice is upheld and defend the eligibility of the players, which has been determined by the Malaysian government and related agencies,” he explained.
The acting president stressed that FAM continues to stand behind the rights and interests of all national team players involved in the dispute.
On November 3, FIFA publicly announced its total rejection of FAM’s appeal against the imposed sanctions, warning that Malaysia’s Harimau Malaya could potentially face points deductions in their ongoing qualification campaign for the 2027 Asian Cup.
The penalties stem from FIFA’s determination that FAM submitted falsified documentation to verify player eligibility ahead of Malaysia’s June 10 match against Vietnam in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifying rounds.
FAM received a substantial fine of 350,000 Swiss francs (approximately RM1.8 million) from the international football authority.
Each of the seven naturalised players involved was individually fined 2,000 Swiss francs (roughly RM10,560) and handed 12-month suspensions from all football activities, with the bans effective from the date of official notification.
