Kuala Lumpur, Sept 29 — The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has pledged to challenge FIFA’s recent sanctions against seven national team players and the association itself, citing a “technical error” in the submission of eligibility documents. The controversy stems from Malaysia’s 4-0 victory over Vietnam in the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers held on June 10, where the sanctioned players were fielded.
On September 26, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee found FAM in violation of Article 22 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, related to document falsification. The global football body imposed a fine of 350,000 Swiss francs (approximately RM1.8 million) on FAM and suspended the seven players for 12 months from all football-related activities. Each player was also fined CHF2,000 (around RM10,560).
The players affected include Gabriel Felipe Arrocha, Facundo Tomas Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Javier Machuca, Joao Vitor Brandao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal Iraurgui, and Hector Alejandro Hevel Serrano — all of whom were registered as naturalised Malaysian citizens.
In an official statement, FAM Secretary-General Datuk Noor Azman Rahman acknowledged the administrative lapse, attributing the issue to a technical error during the document submission process. He emphasized that the players involved are legitimate Malaysian citizens and that the association had followed prescribed guidelines transparently.
FAM Acting President Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi confirmed receipt of FIFA’s decision and stated that the association is awaiting the full written judgment before filing an appeal through appropriate legal channels. “FAM takes this matter seriously and will use all available avenues to protect the interests of the players and the national team,” he said.
The sanctions have sparked widespread debate in Malaysia, with Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil asserting that the documents were in order and suggesting that external parties may have raised the issue out of envy over Malaysia’s football resurgence. Johor Darul Ta’zim FC owner Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim also questioned FIFA’s reversal, noting that the players’ eligibility had previously been approved.
Malaysia currently leads its qualifying group with six points from two matches. The outcome of the appeal could have significant implications for the team’s campaign in the 2027 Asian Cup.
