Summary
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) plans to appeal sanctions from FIFA after being accused of using fake documents to allow players to compete for Malaysia’s national team. FIFA suspended players and fined the FAM, stating the documents were falsified to claim the players had Malaysian heritage. FAM disagrees, saying the documents were genuine and that an error occurred during submission.
Key Facts
- The Football Association of Malaysia faces sanctions from FIFA over alleged use of false documents for player eligibility.
- FIFA suspended seven players and fined FAM $438,000.
- The issue involves overseas-born players incorrectly claimed to have Malaysian heritage.
- FIFA found discrepancies between original birth certificates and documents from FAM.
- FAM argues that the documents are legitimate and plans to appeal the decision.
- The Asian Football Confederation may also impose further penalties.
- Malaysia’s sports minister noted that the situation has upset football fans and affected the country’s reputation.
