FIFA Confirms Falsified Documents in Naturalization Cases, FAM to Appeal to CAS
Kuala Lumpur – FIFA has substantiated claims that documents related to the naturalization of seven Malaysian football players were falsified, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee detailed in a statement released Tuesday, November 18th. Despite the findings,the football Association of Malaysia (FAM) maintains its innocence and will pursue the case with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The decision stems from an appeal following FIFA’s initial rejection on November 3rd, which questioned the eligibility of the players. FIFA’s detailed explanation now confirms the association’s belief that the documentation submitted for the players’ naturalization process was not legitimate. This progress casts a shadow over Malaysia’s recent international performances and raises questions about the integrity of its player eligibility procedures. The outcome of the CAS appeal will determine whether Malaysia faces sanctions or if the players will be permitted to continue representing the national team.
FAM officials, however, remain steadfast in their position. “FAM will initiate the process to take this case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS),” announced Datuk Wira Mohd Yusoff Haji Mahadi. “This step is being taken to ensure that justice can be served and to maintain the integrity of the player eligibility process that has been established by the Malaysian Government and related bodies.”
Datuk Wira Mohd Yusoff Haji Mahadi further emphasized FAM’s commitment to defending the rights of players who meet eligibility requirements, stating, “FAM remains committed to fighting for the rights of all players who meet the requirements to represent the country, and will ensure that every action is taken professionally, transparently, and in accordance with the appropriate legal channels.”
