Sri Pahang drop bombshell with late M-League withdrawal

KUALA LUMPUR: Sri Pahang have officially withdrawn from the 2025-26 M-League season despite being granted a national licence to compete.
The Malaysian Football League (MFL) confirmed on Friday that the club submitted a formal letter dated June 16, stating their decision not to participate in the new campaign, which kicks off on Aug 8.
It marks a sombre moment for Malaysian football, as Sri Pahang have a rich history, winning several domestic titles, including the Super League, Malaysia Cup and FA Cup throughout the years.
Their exit leaves 13 teams in the top flight this year, among them Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT), Selangor, Penang, Kuching City, Sabah, Terengganu, Negri Sembilan, Kelantan Darul Naim, KL City, Police and Brunei's DPMM.
Melaka and Immigration, promoted from the AFL A1 semi-pro league, complete the lineup.
All 13 clubs have secured the 2025-26 national licence from the First Instance Body (FIB), while DPMM's participation has been cleared by both the Asian Football Confederation and Fifa.
"The confirmation of these 13 clubs sets the stage for another exciting M-League season, especially with DPMM making a comeback to local football and two AFL A1 sides entering the top flight," said the MFL.
The new season will open with the Charity Shield clash between defending champions JDT and runners-up Selangor on Aug 8 at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium.
The FA Cup kicks off in mid-August, while the Malaysia Cup and Challenge Cup begin in January.
Unlike last season's extended 14-month transition period, the 2025-26 campaign will span 10 months - part of MFL's move to align with the calendars of major international leagues.
Fixtures are expected to be released soon, though scheduling remains tricky as the AFC will only conduct draws for the Asian Champions League Elite and ACL2 - involving JDT and Selangor - on Aug 15.
Dates for the Asean Club Championship, also featuring both clubs, have yet to be confirmed.

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