Four scenarios for naturalized Malaysian players after CAS postpones verdict date

After the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) notified that the verdict will be released next week, sports legal advisor Zhafri Aminurashid indicated four potential developments regarding the seven naturalized footballers under FIFA suspension.

These four possibilities include: Complete acquittal; partial acquittal; reduction of disciplinary measure; upholding the original sanction.

Zhafri believes the final CAS ruling will depend on how this "world sports tribunal in practice" assesses the document forgery allegations. Accordingly, the case will be examined based on evidence, not emotion or public opinion.

The seven players—Gabriel Palmero, Facundo Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Joao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal, and Hector Hevel—were suspended by FIFA for 12 months starting last September due to document falsification concerning their eligibility for the national team. They have appealed to CAS.

If fully acquitted, it would mean the CAS panel is satisfied that the evidence is insufficient to prove the allegations, thereby fully reinstating the players' eligibility.

Partial acquittal could result in some findings being dismissed while others remain upheld, altering the impact level of FIFA's original penalty.

CAS could also uphold the core findings but reduce the severity of the punishment if mitigating circumstances are accepted. The strictest outcome would be maintaining the entire original sanction.

Zhafri emphasized that regardless of the verdict, it will not be influenced by online debates or external pressure.

"It is important to understand that CAS panels do not rely on speculation or public opinion pressure.

They examine whether each document is authentic, matches other records, and if any inconsistencies are unintentional or deliberate.

They utilize expert opinions when necessary and apply the legal standard of 'balance of probability.' Their task is to reach conclusions based on evidence, not external noise."

Regarding the time taken to issue the ruling, Zhafri explained that the process extends far beyond the hearing itself.

"CAS takes weeks or months after the hearing because the panel must reconvene, review everything meticulously, and draft a comprehensive legal decision.

The hearing is merely when both sides present arguments and evidence. Afterwards, the arbitrators hold private deliberations, compare notes, reanalyze evidence, and determine which facts are accepted.

He reiterated that once the ruling is issued, compliance is mandatory within the football system.

"CAS decisions are binding on national associations because FIFA recognizes CAS as the final appellate body," he said.