JDT fined RM27k by AFC after ACLE quarter-final, but still pocket RM6.7m in prize money following historic run and boost Malaysia’s ranking.
JOHOR Darul Ta’zim (JDT) have been handed a US$7,000 (RM27,700) fine by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), slightly overshadowing what has otherwise been a historic and lucrative campaign in the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE).
The sanction follows disciplinary breaches during JDT’s quarter-final clash against Al Ahli last Friday.
According to the New Straits Times, seven individuals, comprising both players and team officials, were cautioned during the match.
The accumulation of bookings triggered an automatic sanction under Article 53.1 of the AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Code, read together with Article 3.1 of the tournament’s Disciplinary Circular.
The AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Committee has ordered the Southern Tigers to settle the fine within 30 days, as stipulated under Article 11.3. The club has been warned that failure to comply could result in more severe penalties.
Despite this minor disciplinary setback, JDT’s performance on the continental stage has been unprecedented.
The club made history by becoming the first Malaysian side to reach the quarter-finals of the newly revamped ACLE.
Their impressive run also translated into substantial financial rewards, with the club raking in an estimated US$1.7 million (RM6.72 million) in total prize money.
This includes US$800,000 for initial participation, US$300,000 from three wins in the East Asia stage, and additional payouts of US$200,000 and US$400,000 for progressing to the round of 16 and quarter-finals respectively.
JDT’s achievements have had a significant ripple effect on the national game. Their performances contributed 21.500 points to Malaysia’s Member Association (MA) ranking.
When combined with Selangor’s 2.667 points, the nation has accrued a total of 12.083 points for the 2025–26 season.
This elevated ranking ensures Malaysia will receive an additional slot in next season’s AFC Champions League Two (ACL2), highlighting the broader benefits of the Southern Tigers’ breakthrough season for Malaysian football.