Latest news with #FIFA-imposed
The Star
03-08-2025
- Business
- The Star
Hafiz steps down as president to keep Warriors in A1 Semi Pro League
A new beginning: Former Kelantan Red Warriors president Nik Hafiz Naim Nik (right) shaking hands with newly-appointed CEO Wan Mohd Fajarul Ekram. — KRW PETALING JAYA: Kelantan Red Warriors president Nik Hafiz Naim Nik has taken the drastic step of stepping down to ensure the team's continued participation in the A1 Semi Pro League, which kicked off last Saturday. Hafiz admitted that it was a difficult decision, but one he felt was necessary to avoid risking the collapse of the team after all the efforts that had been poured into building it. He has also relinquished all positions and shareholdings in KRW in a bid to distance the team from any claims linking it to the troubled Kelantan FC. As a result, ownership of the Red Warriors has now been transferred to coffeehouse franchise Nasken Coffee, with Wan Mohd Fajarul Ekram appointed as the club's new chief executive officer. 'When this issue surfaced, it sparked a lot of speculation in the media, particularly linking me to Kelantan FC as a former shareholder. ''Unfortunately, it also affected Red Warriors and led to a suspension by FIFA. 'So I've decided to step aside to help ease the situation and pave the way for the team to return to action in the A1 League,' said Hafiz. The club are currently under investigation by FIFA over allegations that the team are essentially a rebranded version of Kelantan FC, who still have unsettled salary arrears involving several former players and officials. Due to the ongoing investigation, Irfan Bakti's side are not only barred from playing in any matches but have also been unable to register players, with the FIFA-imposed suspension set to remain in place until a decision is announced on Aug 14. Hafiz previously clarified that although he held shares in the club, his stake was limited to just five per cent. The majority was owned by Kelantan FC's main shareholder, entrepreneur Norizam Tukiman, known for his burger business, Zamburger. With his resignation, Hafiz is hoping for a favourable decision from FIFA, which would allow Red Warriors to return to action after their opening two matches against Selangor II today and Seoul Phoenix on Aug 10 had been postponed. 'Kelantan have a strong team in the A1 League and I believe they can go all the way to win the title this year. I will continue to support the club that I hold dear,' he added.
New Straits Times
29-07-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Kelantan Red Warriors' league debut delayed by FIFA transfer ban
KUALA LUMPUR: The Amateur Football League (AFL) has postponed Kelantan Red Warriors' (KRW) first two A1 Semi-Pro League matches due to a FIFA-imposed transfer ban. KRW had submitted a full explanation to FIFA on Saturday — two days before Monday's deadline — in response to a show-cause letter from world football's governing body. AFL chairman Datuk Yusoff Mahadi said the league is giving KRW some leeway to resolve the issue before deciding whether to let them remain in the competition. "KRW received a letter from FIFA about a transfer ban originally imposed on Kelantan FC, as they are seen as the same entity. "FIFA is expected to make a decision on KRW's status by Aug 14. Until then, KRW has been given a chance to respond," said Yusoff on Tuesday, following the 2025/26 A1 Semi-Pro League official broadcaster announcement. "AFL understands KRW cannot register players until the issue is resolved, which means they have no players to field despite the league starting on August 2. "We're giving them time until FIFA decides. As a result, two KRW matches scheduled before Aug 14 will be postponed. We hope KRW can resolve this matter and stay in the league. It would be a shame if they were excluded." KRW, coached by Irfan Bakti, were due to face Selangor FC on Aug 4 and Seoul Phoenix on Aug 10 in their opening two games. A search of the FIFA database shows Kelantan FC are under a registration ban, listed eight times since 2023. The reasons remain undisclosed. FIFA is holding KRW accountable for Kelantan FC's salary arrears, citing the sporting succession rule, which allows sanctions on new clubs deemed to have inherited the obligations of their predecessors.
The South African
09-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs reportedly eye Zajmović after TS Galaxy exit
Kaizer Chiefs could be on the verge of securing a reliable frontman after Bosnian striker Dženan Zajmović confirmed his departure from TS Galaxy. The experienced forward announced his exit through a heartfelt Instagram post, officially ending his time with the Rockets and sparking transfer speculation linking him to Naturena. 'Unfortunately, my chapter at TS Galaxy has come to an end. I would like to thank the chairman, the head coach, the club director, the whole staff and last but not least my AMAZING TEAMMATES. It truly felt like being part of a family,' Zajmović posted, highlighting the emotional bond he formed at the club. Chiefs' ongoing struggle for consistency in front of goal makes Zajmović a tempting option. During the 2024/2025 campaign, he scored 11 goals across all competitions, including seven in the Betway Premiership, three in the Nedbank Cup and one in the Carling Knockout. The 30-year-old also chipped in with two assists in 28 appearances, underlining his contribution beyond just goals. Kaizer Chiefs need a striker who can deliver under pressure and link up well in attack, Zajmović ticks those boxes. His exit comes at a chaotic time for TS Galaxy, who are grappling with their fourth FIFA-imposed transfer ban in under a year. With the club unable to strengthen their squad, Zajmović's departure may present a golden opportunity for Kaizer Chiefs to pounce. With Edson Castillo reportedly on his way out of Naturena, a foreign player slot could soon become available. Clearing the path for the Bosnian hitman's potential arrival. Zajmović isn't just a proven finisher, he brings character and leadership, qualities that would resonate in the Chiefs dressing room. His farewell message speaks volumes about his professionalism and the value he places on team unity. If Kaizer Chiefs want to challenge for silverware next season, securing a striker like Zajmović could prove a masterstroke. Do Kaizer Chiefs need another striker like Zajmović? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
Morocco World
16-05-2025
- Sport
- Morocco World
Zamalek Settle FIFA Dispute with Boutaïb
Egyptian club Zamalek have completed payment of outstanding dues to former Morocco international Khalid Boutaïb, lifting a FIFA-imposed registration ban. The Cairo side transferred €983,000 to the striker this week, fulfilling the remaining balance of a €2.4m settlement ordered by FIFA after the player's contract was terminated in January 2020. Boutaïb, now 38, joined Zamalek from Turkish club Yeni Malatyaspor in January 2019 and made 24 appearances, scoring five goals and assisting twice. He was also part of the squad that won the CAF Confederation Cup in 2019. The player filed a complaint with FIFA after a dispute over medical treatment led to the termination of his deal. The world governing body ruled in Boutaïb's favour and imposed a ban preventing Zamalek from registering new players until payment was completed. The club must now resolve a separate case involving former coach Jaime Pacheco, who is owed around $1m, including interest. Zamalek hope to lift all restrictions before the summer transfer window. Boutaïb has since continued his career in France. He currently plays for the second-division side Pau FC. He has played 29 games so far this season, scored 7 goals, and assisted once. Tags: Khalid BoutaibMoroccozamalek
New Straits Times
05-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Terengganu FC clear the air over FIFA sanction
KUALA LUMPUR: Terengganu FC have dismissed concerns over a FIFA-imposed transfer ban, insisting the matter was resolved last month. In a statement on their official Facebook page, the east coast club said the issue stemmed from a dispute with a former foreign staff member over a five-figure allowance, which has since been settled. "The issue shouldn't even be played up as it was resolved in April," the club said. "FIFA confirmed the settlement on April 21 and gave five days for the claimant to acknowledge receipt of payment. That window has passed." The club stressed that the Malaysian league's transfer window has not opened yet — it's expected to start in July — and that the new season is likely to kick off in early August. "We've already taken proactive steps, despite having ample time. This issue is being sensationalised," they added. Earlier, Timesport reported that FIFA had imposed transfer bans on nine Malaysian clubs, including Super League side Terengganu. The ban, which began in April and is due to last three years, had cast doubt over the club's preparations for the 2025-26 season. Football Dec 16, 2024 @ 7:48am Ex-Terengganu City players finally receive Fifa compensation Football 5 hours ago Nine Malaysian clubs on FIFA transfer ban list Football Mar 25, 2025 @ 8:26pm Blatter and Platini cleared in FIFA graft case Nation Apr 24, 2025 @ 10:21am Terengganu to ban vape sales from Aug 1
