The Court of Arbitration for Sport has reduced the penalties for seven football players linked to Malaysia's national team, who were found to have used false naturalisation papers. Instead of more severe sanctions, the athletes will now face a 12-month ban from participating in official matches. The decision marks a significant reduction in the original punishments, focusing solely on competition restrictions rather than broader career impacts.
Among those affected is Facundo Garces, currently playing for Deportivo Alaves. The CAS ruling emphasizes that while the use of falsified documents was confirmed, the revised sanctions reflect a proportionate response under sporting regulations. The case highlights the balance between upholding integrity in international football and considering individual circumstances during disciplinary proceedings.