FIFA Wants Explanation From Kelantan Football Team Over Unpaid Player Salaries

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FIFA has sent a show-cause letter to Kelantan Red Warriors (KRW) over unpaid player salaries linked to its alleged predecessor, Kelantan FC

According to the New Straits Times, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed receiving the letter from the world football governing body on 23 July.

FAM secretary-general Datuk Noor Azman Rahman said FIFA believes KRW is a possible rebranding effort by the now-defunct, debt-ridden Kelantan FC.

"There is a complaint, and it was specified that KRW is a sporting successor to Kelantan FC.

"This means it is considered the same team, and Kelantan FC had some arrears. Now FIFA is giving KRW five days to explain, starting from July 23," he explained.

Under FIFA rules, new clubs deemed sporting successors can be held accountable for a former club's financial obligations.

KRW was formed in December last year by Nik Hafiz Naim Nik Hassan, former director of Kelantan FC, and is scheduled to compete in the local 2025/2026 A1 Semi-Pro League

According to FAM, FIFA is now questioning KRW's eligibility to participate in the league.

Noor Azman said he has also notified the league's organiser, Amateur Football League (AFL), which he said will decide on any further action.

In response, KRW has strongly denied the connection

According to a statement by KRW president today, 28 July, Nik Hafiz stressed that KRW is a separate entity from Kelantan FC, which was owned by Norizam Tukiman, who's better known as Zamsaham.

"We strongly deny this and will send a response to FIFA to challenge and express our disagreement with the claims of the world football governing body. KRW FC and Kelantan FC are two different entities, not the same club," he said.

"Kelantan FC is still owned by Zamsaham to this day and if they get a licence, they can also compete in the A1 Semi-Pro League," he told Kosmo!.