AFC Fines FAM, Selangor, and JDT for Rule Violations: A Deep Dive into the Details
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has handed down fines to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and two prominent Malaysian League clubs, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Selangor, for rule violations during matches in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, the Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE), and the Asian Champions League 2 (ACL2).
FAM was fined US$1,875 (RM7,788) for an incident during the 2027 Asian Cup qualifier against Laos at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on October 14. The specific violation was a two-minute and 30-second delay in the start of the second half caused by the representative of the respondent.
The AFC committee emphasized the need for prompt action, stating, 'The fine must be paid within 30 days from the date of notification of this decision in accordance with Article 11.3 of the AFC Code of Disciplinary and Ethics.'
JDT, the eleven-time consecutive Super League champions, faced a US$5,000 (RM20,783) fine for failing to provide a 'Clean Stadium' at the official training ground for the ACLE match against Japan's Machida Zelvia on September 30. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining stadium standards during international competitions.
Selangor received a US$1,250 (RM5,195) fine for a delay in the second-half kickoff during the ACL2 match against Persib Bandung on October 23. The team's representatives caused a one-minute and 20-second delay, drawing attention to the need for punctuality in match proceedings.
Both JDT and Selangor have been given a 30-day window to settle their respective fines, underscoring the AFC's commitment to maintaining fair play and adherence to competition rules across all levels of Asian football.
