Andina

Peru's Guerrero to play in World Cup after Swiss court ruling

Photo: AFP

Photo: AFP

09:58 | Lima, May. 31.

Peruvian top striker Paolo Guerrero was cleared to play at the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup after the Swiss Federal Court on Thursday agreed to lift the 14-month ban imposed on him by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The Guerrero story had a happy ending for Peru's national team and coach Ricardo Gareca, who will be able to call on his star striker for Russia 2018.

Thus, the Swiss court accepted Guerrero's request to interrupt the ban.

The tribunal issued a statement that confirms the temporary lifting of the player's suspension. The document is available in French and German only.

Guerrero case

Last December, FIFA Disciplinary Committee suspended the striker for one year after analyzing the adverse analytical result of the anti-doping test conducted on him following a Qualifiers match against Argentina in October.

Later, it decided to reduce such suspension to 6 months, which would allow the sportsman to join the Inca team that will participate in the 2018 World Cup.

The star's defense demonstrated —with evidence— that he had never used cocaine (banned by FIFA).

In order to seek acquittal, the player's defense appealed the decision last January.

Yet, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) requested the sanction to be extended for up to two years.

On May 14, CAS decided to increase Guerrero's suspension from 6 to 14 months, thus leaving him out of the sporting mega-event.

As is known, the Peruvian met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino early last week. At the meeting, the striker unsuccessfully sought amnesty from FIFA's top official.

Lastly, Guerrero's legal team submitted an appeal to the Swiss Federal Court to suspend the ban imposed on the Peruvian icon.


(END) JSO/RMB/MVB

Published: 5/31/2018