Gabriel Palmero, a promising Malaysian footballer, is facing a challenging period as he awaits FIFA’s final decision regarding his 12-month suspension. This suspension affects Palmero and six other players, all banned from participating in any football-related activities due to allegations of document falsification.
Background on the Suspension
The Malaysian Football Association (FAM) has been sanctioned by FIFA following claims that the registration documents of these players were tampered with. This situation arose during the eligibility process for the Asian Cup qualifier match against Vietnam, held on June 10.
Key Players Involved
- Gabriel Palmero
- Facundo Garcés
- Rodrigo Holgado
- Imanol Machuca
- João Figueiredo
- Jon Irazábal
- Héctor Hevel
Fines and Penalties
Each of the suspended players, including Palmero, faces a fine of 2,000 Swiss francs (approximately RM10,570). In addition, the FAM must pay a substantial penalty of 350,000 Swiss francs (around RM1.85 million).
Palmero’s Determination
Despite the current uncertainty surrounding his career, Palmero remains hopeful. The 23-year-old is determined to fight against the ruling, expressing his resolve through a message on Instagram saying, “Lucharla hasta el final,” which translates to “Fight to the end.” This attitude reflects his commitment to clearing his name and returning to the sport he loves.
Next Steps
The Football Association of Malaysia has a 10-day window to appeal FIFA’s decision. However, the full details and grounds of FIFA’s judgment have yet to be released. Palmero’s future in football hangs in the balance as he waits for updates regarding his appeal and the overall situation.
