UEFA confirm Porto decision

UEFA have confirmed FC Porto will play in the Champions League next season.

The Portuguese champions’ ban from the competition for their part in a bribery scandal was overturned on Friday by UEFA’s appeals body pending a new hearing.

A statement from European football’s governing body read: “As communicated on Friday 13 June, the disciplinary case regarding FC Porto and their entry to the 2008/09 UEFA Champions League season has been referred back to the UEFA control and disciplinary body.

“However, following the written grounds as sent by the UEFA appeals body, it can now be confirmed that FC Porto will be admitted to the UEFA Champions League in season 2008/09.

“This is essentially due to the proceedings in Portugal not having been finally concluded.”