KUALA LUMPUR – The Amateur Football League (AFL) has imposed a two-match suspension on the Kelantan Red Warriors (KRW) in the A1 Semi-Pro League due to ongoing financial disputes involving FIFA.
AFL Chairman Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi told Scoop that the league will await FIFA’s decision before deciding whether KRW can continue competing or face expulsion.
FIFA had earlier given the East Coast club until August 14 to respond to issues stemming from a player transfer ban originally imposed on Kelantan FC — now extended to KRW, which FIFA considers the same entity.
“KRW received a letter from FIFA over the transfer ban, which was extended because of their link to Kelantan FC. Until the matter is resolved, KRW cannot register players, meaning they’re currently ineligible to compete,” said Yusoff.
“With the league starting August 2, we’ve postponed KRW’s first two fixtures — against Selangor II (August 4) and Seoul Phoenix (August 10) — to give them time.
“We hope KRW resolves the matter, as the AFL welcomes their participation,” he added.
KRW president Nik Hafiz Naim Nik Hassan refuted any formal ties between KRW and Kelantan FC, saying KRW is a separate entity with its own management, players, and branding.
“We’re using the ‘Red Warriors’ name and red-and-white colors because they represent our state flag,” he said, clarifying that his former involvement with Kelantan FC has no bearing on the current club.
Nik Hafiz added that KRW responded to FIFA’s show-cause letter and that preparations for friendly matches and the new season are proceeding as planned. — July 30, 2025