Naturalized player penalized by FIFA must prove Malaysian heritage

Forward Joao Figueiredo has taken steps to demonstrate his Malaysian roots following a FIFA suspension.

Recently, Joao Figueiredo, one of the seven players sanctioned by FIFA after the Malaysian Football Association’s (FAM) naturalization case,made a surprising move. The forward posted a photo of his extended family on his personal Instagram, sparking belief in his Malaysian ancestry.

Notably, in the 19-page disciplinary ruling issued by FIFA,the organization mentioned Joao Figueiredo’s grandmother, Mrs. Nair de Oliveira, born in 1931. According to documents collected by FIFA, her original birth certificate states she was born in Brazil. However, another birth certificate submitted by FAM to FIFA lists Malaysia as her birthplace, and this certificate was only reissued in 2017.

Furthermore, during the investigation, FIFA discovered that 5 out of the 7 birth certificates provided by FAM for player registration were reissued in January 2025. This contradictory information deepens doubts about Joao Figueiredo’s true origins and the legitimacy of his recognition as a Malaysian player.

At a recent press conference, Serge Vittoz, the legal representative for FAM, stated that the appeal submitted to FIFA’s Appeal Committee asserts that FAM did not engage in any forgery or alteration of documents either from the federation or the involved players.

However, FAM’s Vice President, Datuk S. Sivasundaram, appeared uneasy when questioned by the media regarding the backgrounds and origins of Joao Figueiredo and the six other players.

Under media pressure, he responded briefly: "You ask why we have not proven their origins. We cannot disclose this at the moment; let the matter settle. Meanwhile, FAM is establishing an independent body to review the case."

Previously, Joao Figueiredo along with six other naturalized players (Hector Hevel, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Facundo Garces, Jon Irazabal, and Gabriel Palmero) participated in two matches during the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers representing Malaysia. These players significantly contributed to the "Malayan Tigers" victories over Nepal and Vietnam.

Nevertheless, FIFA intervened and concluded that FAM committed fraud in the naturalization of these players, imposing bans and fines on both FAM and the involved stars.

Currently, FAM has officially filed an appeal with FIFAand if the outcome is unfavorable, FAM plans to escalate the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to seek justice for the team and its naturalized players.

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