Malaysian media excitedly exclaims after winning the case at CAS

Malaysian media collectively announced that FAM succeeded in a provisional appeal at CAS, enabling 7 naturalized players to resume playing pending the final decision.

Malaysian football is currently experiencing a true celebration after the country’s football association (FAM) secured a significant victory in a lawsuit at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Accordingly, FAM officially filed an appeal requesting the suspension of sanctions previously imposed by FIFA on their group of naturalized players. In a surprising turn, this request was approved by CAS.

This decision immediately brings a "fresh breath of life" to the Malaysian national team. The seven naturalized stars who were banned by FIFA have now been legally cleared and are eligible to play again until the final ruling is issued.

Malaysian media could not hide their excitement with headlines stating: “Malaysia’s national team wins appeal for 7 naturalized players, now they are free to play again!”.

Malaysia’s legal triumph is not only a personnel boost but also a landmark event shaking the regional football community. AFC Secretary General Datuk Seri Windsor Paul John, a seasoned and experienced figure, described this occurrence as "rare".

Speaking to the media, Mr. Windsor emphasized the strictness of procedures at CAS: “Seven players requested a suspension of their playing ban, and at CAS, this is extremely difficult because the criteria are very stringent.”

He also affirmed that this is the first time he has witnessed such a scenario during his tenure: “Since I became Secretary General in 2015, there has never been a case where the defendant’s side had their sanctions temporarily lifted. This is the first time in history that CAS has approved a suspension of enforcement for players.”

 

Usually, attempts to suspend sanctions at AFC when brought to CAS end in failure, but Malaysia has written a new chapter.

Although the 7 naturalized players can now smile again on the field, Malaysian football still needs to exercise caution. The current suspension from CAS is only temporary to protect the players’ right to compete while the case is under thorough review.

The final decision to determine the long-term status of these players is scheduled to be released by CAS on February 26, 2026. Mr. Windsor warned that the chances of winning the case remain “50-50”.

After the hearing, CAS may take additional time to review evidence and arguments before issuing the final ruling. This outcome will officially confirm the long-term eligibility of the group of naturalized players.