The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has recently handed down a fine of Rp20 million to Persiraja Banda Aceh following their participation in an international friendly match against Penang FC without proper authorization. The match, which took place on March 28th, was part of Persiraja’s preparations for the upcoming Liga 1 season.
The decision to fine Persiraja was made by the AFC Disciplinary Committee, which found the club guilty of violating Article 3.2 of the AFC Statutes, which states that clubs must obtain permission from their national association before participating in international matches. Persiraja failed to seek approval from PSSI before arranging the friendly with Penang FC, leading to the imposition of the fine.
While the Rp20 million fine may seem like a hefty sum, it is a necessary measure to ensure that clubs comply with the rules and regulations set forth by the AFC and PSSI. By enforcing these rules, the integrity of international matches is preserved, and clubs are held accountable for their actions.
In response to the fine, Persiraja has accepted the decision and has vowed to be more diligent in seeking approval for future international matches. The club has also expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to PSSI and has promised to adhere to all regulations moving forward.
This incident serves as a reminder to all Indonesian clubs of the importance of following proper procedures when participating in international matches. By obtaining the necessary authorization from PSSI, clubs can avoid unnecessary fines and sanctions and ensure that they are in compliance with AFC regulations.
As Persiraja looks to bounce back from this setback and focus on their upcoming Liga 1 campaign, they will need to learn from this experience and ensure that they are fully compliant with all rules and regulations in the future. With the support of their fans and the guidance of PSSI, Persiraja can move past this incident and continue to strive for success on the pitch.
