FAM’s Appeal Against Fifa Ruling Moves to Next Stage at CAS

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 9 — The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has reached a critical stage in its legal challenge after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) confirmed it has accepted the national body’s appeal against sanctions imposed by Fifa.

CAS communication officer Vanessa Tracey said both parties are currently exchanging written submissions as part of standard CAS procedures.

“This document exchange phase is part of the normal process before any hearing is fixed. After this stage, and subject to agreement by both parties, a hearing date will be scheduled,” she was quoted as saying.

CAS also noted that updates on the hearing schedule will be published on its official website.

FAM filed the appeal in a bid to protect the interests of the national team and affected players following Fifa’s sanctions over alleged falsification of documents.

The association had earlier submitted its Statement of Appeal concerning seven Harimau Malaya heritage players implicated in the case.

Acting FAM president Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi said the appeal has now entered a new phase following the submission of official documents to CAS.

Both legal teams have until Dec 18, 2025, to submit their full written arguments.

Previously, Fifa’s Appeals Committee dismissed the appeals by FAM and the seven players — Gabriel Palmero, Facundo Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Joao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal and Hector Hevel — after reviewing all evidence and submissions.

Fifa ruled that the case involved a serious violation under Article 22 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code and upheld all existing sanctions.

FAM was fined CHF350,000 (RM1.9 million), while the seven players were each fined CHF2,000 (RM10,000) and handed 12-month suspensions from all football-related activities.