Istanbul inquiry nears conclusion

FIFA hearings
FIFA has conducted hearings with more than 30 involved parties and witnesses - in some cases more than once - to determine the identity of the perpetrators and the exact sequence of events at the end of the match which marred Switzerland's passage to Germany. The final hearings are scheduled for the end of this month. "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee can only convene when all necessary investigations have been completed in their entirety," said the world body.

'Complex'
"Due to the large number of people involved, the investigations have proven to be extremely complex and time-consuming. In addition to players and officials from both associations, a number of other people have also been invited to attend hearings. FIFA also wishes to interview a German journalist who was in an area near to the dressing rooms in the Istanbul stadium when the incidents occurred.

Reports and statements
"On the basis of reports from FIFA delegates and match officials, as well as statements and comments from the associations, players and officials involved, the committee will determine whether and to what extent FIFA's disciplinary, ethics and security regulations were violated by the incidents under review," FIFA concluded.

Decision appeals
Appeals against disciplinary committee decisions may in certain circumstances be lodged with the FIFA Appeal Committee, before the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne can be called upon as the body of final instance in accordance with the FIFA Statutes.