It is important to reiterate that FIFA is not in a position to interpret the statements and assessments made by the independent Ethics Committee.

The Ethics Committee is independent from FIFA and contains two separate chambers that mirror the system of justice in many countries with an investigatory chamber independent from the adjudicatory chamber. In line with this independence, FIFA does not have any influence over the writing of investigatory reports nor over the findings of any investigations.

In terms of the recommendations of the Ethics Committee, these will be carefully considered and assessed by FIFA.

Regarding media reports about a potential appeal by Michael J. Garcia, chairman of the investigatory chamber of the FIFA Ethics Committee, FIFA can today confirm receipt of his intention to appeal to the FIFA Appeal Committee. Further information on the appeal procedure is available in art. 80 of the FIFA Code of Ethics and art. 119ff. of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

Taking into consideration that the deadline to submit reasons for the appeal is on-going, FIFA is not in a position to comment further for the time-being.