Juve ignore FIFA threat and appeal

Juventus have ignored threats of more sanctions by appealing to a civil court against their demotion for their part in the match-fixing scandal. After losing an appeal to Italy's Olympic Committee (CONI) Juve have taken their case to the TAR Lazio tribunal.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) warned of further punishments if the scandal-hit club persist with their appeal. The game's governing body FIFA has also warned Italy could be thrown out of the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign if Juve continue their fight. They confirmed on Wednesday that the situation would be “monitored carefully” and further decisions might be taken, should the circumstances require them.

Juve's persistence in continuing their fight has already thrown the Italian domestic season into turmoil. Fixture lists for the forthcoming season are due to be published on 30 August, and the start of the season has already been put back to 9/10 September. Both the FIGC and Lega Calcio (Football League) have guaranteed that there will be no further delays. If Juve's appeal is successful the season could be delayed by a further two weeks.

The Lazio Regional Administrative Court has special powers to rule in sporting cases and will hear the case on 6 September.

FIFA say Juve's decision to involve civil law is against its rules and has threatened to suspend the FIGC.


Read Juventus Statement (Italian) >>>