Former Cagliari President Massimo Cellino has lost an appeal against a ban on owning English club Leeds United.
The former Isolani patron was disqualified from owning the Elland Road side in December, but was allowed to appeal the ban.
However, that appeal has today been rejected, meaning that Cellino cannot continue as Leeds President until his suspension has been served.
Former Cagliari President Massimo Cellino has lost an appeal against a ban on owning English club Leeds United.
The former Isolani patron was disqualified from owning the Elland Road side in December, but was allowed to appeal the ban.
However, that appeal has today been rejected, meaning that Cellino cannot continue as Leeds President until his suspension has been served.
“A Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) chaired by Tim Kerr QC has rejected an appeal by Leeds United President Massimo Cellino against the recent decision by the Board of The Football League that he is subject to a disqualifying condition under its Owners' and Directors' Test,” the Football League confirmed in a statement.
“The PCC found that the reasoned judgment of the Italian Court, once it had become available, was for an act involving dishonesty as determined by the Board in its original ruling in March 2014.
“Mr. Cellino’s appeal against that original decision had been upheld on the basis that it could not be concluded that the offence necessarily involved a ‘Dishonest Act’ for the purposes of the Test.
“Once the reasoned judgment became available, the Board considered the matter again and concluded that it clearly demonstrated that Mr. Cellino’s offence did indeed involve acts that would reasonably be considered to be dishonest.
“As a result of this decision, Massimo Cellino is disqualified from acting as a ‘Relevant Person’, as defined by Football League regulations until 10th April 2015.
“The Football League will provide any assistance requested by Leeds United to help it minimise, as far as possible, the effect this decision has on the Club while Mr. Cellino serves his period of disqualification.”
Cellino has also released a statement, in which he decried the decision, but praised Leeds fans.
“Mr Cellino would like to thank the fans, sponsors and members of the wider footballing community that have given him overwhelming support, not just since the disqualifying order was issued but since he arrived at the club.
“We are surprised and disappointed by the verdict, however we are continuing to take legal advice.”