PETALING JAYA: Seven Harimau Malaya players have been handed a lifeline after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) granted a stay of execution, allowing them to return to football action with immediate effect.
In a statement on Monday (Jan 26), the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed that the stay applies to Facundo Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Joao Figueiredo, Gabriel Palmero, Jon Irazabal, and Hector Hevel.
The ruling temporarily lifts the 12-month suspension and fines imposed by FIFA, pending CAS' final decision on the appeal.
FAM had appealed to challenge the FIFA sanction on the mixed-heritage players and the national body over doctored eligibility documents.
With the suspension on hold, the players are now free to resume their professional careers and take part in all football-related activities until CAS deliver their final verdict.
