CAS upholds ban, La Liga club makes decision regarding Malaysian naturalization fraud star

After the CAS verdict, Deportivo Alaves club takes action concerning defender Facundo Garces, the player linked to the Malaysian naturalization controversy

Deportivo Alaves club confirms it will continue training and physical preparation for defender Facundo Garces after CAS maintains the 12-month playing ban for this player.

In a statement issued on March 5, the La Liga club stated they respect the CAS decision but emphasized that Garces is still permitted to continue football-related activities during his suspension period. Previously, CAS reviewed the case involving Garces and six other players banned for falsifying documents to qualify to play for Malaysia. After the appeal process, the international sports court decided to uphold the 12-month ban from official matches.

According to the CAS decision, the suspension period is backdated to last September, meaning the time already served by the players will count towards the total ban duration.

Alaves representatives stated the ban is limited to participation in official matches. "The player is banned from official matches for 12 months, and the time already served will be counted towards this penalty," the club's announcement clarified.

Nevertheless, the Basque club affirmed Garces can continue training and maintain professional activities with the first team during his suspension. "The ban applies only to matches. Garces can still train and continue his professional career development at the club during this period," Alaves added.

The Spanish club also stressed it will thoroughly study the entire CAS ruling before taking further steps. "We respect the decisions of the competent authorities and will examine the full content of the ruling in detail," the club's representative affirmed.

This case also marks the failure of FAM's appeal efforts, the body that sought to overturn the ban following a disciplinary investigation into violations of international football regulations. For the remaining suspension period, Alaves stated they will continue to facilitate Garces in maintaining his best form and fitness, to be ready to return to play immediately once the ban ends.