It will be tough to get ban overturned

Fifa’s decision to ban Luis Suarez from international competition for nine matches and from all football-related activities for four months is unusual in its reach, but that alone does not guarantee an appeal will be successful.

Normally, Fifa disciplinary sanctions are only applicable to Fifa competitions. However, the Fifa Disciplinary Code provides that for serious infringements, other bodies can request extension of their sanctions so that they have worldwide affect. If no request is forthcoming, Fifa can decide to do so of its own accord.

But with the stakes so high in this case, we can look forward to a vigorously contest appeal. What form might this take?