As confirmed by a host of reliable sources, the English Football Association have opted to take FIFA to court, based on a compliant surrounding the disciplinary process used by football’s governing body in reaching a verdict regarding Chelsea’s transfer ban.
FIFA’s Chelsea case
Premier League giants Chelsea were hit with a 2-window signing embargo by FIFA in February of last year.The news came on the back of a long-running investigation into Chelsea’s recent transfer dealings, with a particular emphasis on the arrival of players under the age of 18.
Chelsea’s successful appeal
Chelsea unsurprisingly took immediate action on the back of their sanction being made official, lodging an appeal with FIFA to have their ban frozen for 6 months, to ensure at least 1 transfer window during which they could secure reinforcements ahead of putting together a case to defend themselves.
And, though the Blues’ initial appeal was firmly rejected, those in charge at Stamford Bridge refused to give up hope of having their ban reduced from two windows to one.
As such, the Pensioners lodged a further appeal last summer, which, upon hearing by the Court of Arbitration for Sport in November, proved successful.
This opened the door for Chelsea to sign players during the January transfer window, and, though they eventually opted against doing so, the verdict was, in the end, viewed as a huge win for all associated with the capital giants.
