KUALA LUMPUR – FIFA has recommended that a criminal investigation be launched across five countries — Brazil, Argentina, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia — over allegations of document falsification involving seven naturalised Harimau Malaya players.
In a detailed 64-page written ruling released early today, FIFA’s Appeal Committee stated that the seriousness of the alleged offences, particularly the falsification of official documents, warrants the involvement of competent criminal authorities.
“Given the nature and gravity of this offence, especially involving official documents, the Committee directs the Secretariat to notify the relevant criminal authorities in Brazil, Argentina, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia,” FIFA said in its motivated decision report.
“Document falsification constitutes a criminal offence under the jurisdictions concerned, and it is essential for authorities to be informed to enable appropriate investigations and criminal proceedings.”
On November 3, FIFA’s Appeal Committee upheld the decision of its Disciplinary Committee, which found that the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the seven players had breached Article 22 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) by falsifying documents.
FAM was fined 350,000 Swiss francs (approximately RM1.9 million), while each of the seven players — Gabriel Palmero, Facundo Garcés, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, João Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal and Héctor Hevel — were fined 2,000 Swiss francs (about RM10,000) and suspended from all football activities for 12 months.
The Appeal Committee also ordered FIFA to initiate a formal investigation into FAM’s internal operations in relation to the case. The inquiry will examine the individuals responsible, assess the adequacy of FAM’s compliance and governance mechanisms, and determine whether further disciplinary measures against officials are warranted.
The investigation will initially focus on the role of FAM’s secretary-general and two agents identified during the proceedings — Nicolás Puppo and Frederico Moraes — whose involvement, FIFA said, raises serious concerns requiring thorough scrutiny.
In addition, FIFA has mandated a separate investigation into the use of ineligible players in three friendly matches cited in the case. The inquiry will determine how these players were allowed to participate and whether further action is necessary.
The move underscores FIFA’s intent to ensure accountability and uphold the integrity of the sport, signalling a robust response to allegations of misconduct within Malaysian football. — November 18, 2025