PETALING JAYA: This year’s Super League may only have 13 teams if Kelantan’s appeal to get back into the league fails.
Kelantan’s licence has been revoked after they failed to comply with the criteria set by the Malaysian Football League (MFL) in order to compete in this year’s domestic season, which is expected to start in April.
They have failed to make payments that are due to their players before two deadlines set for them by the Independent First Instance Body (FIB) on Nov 30 and Dec 31.
MFL chief executive officer Datuk Stuart Ramalingam said they would start thinking of a 13-team season, instead of 14, pending Kelantan’s verdict.
“For now, it will be 13 teams depending on the appeal process for Kelantan. If the appeal does not go through, we will think of the next step for sure in planning for the 13 teams for the new season,” said Stuart.
Stuart quashed a rumour that Melaka could take over Kelantan’s spot as the 14th team.
“We have gone through the licensing process with the AFL (Amateur Football League) teams and none have passed the regulations to get a licence for the Super League,” said Stuart.
“If there is an opening, the board will consider but right now, we will wait for Kelantan’s appeal outcome.”
Kelantan will be allowed to submit an appeal to the MFL Club Licensing Appeals Body before the deadline on Jan 8 by 5pm against FIB’s decision.
The Red Warriors, who faced financial issues last season, concluded the 2023 Super League at the bottom with eight points after losing 22 matches and securing only two wins and two draws.
