FIFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Luis Suarez for biting incident

FIFA released a statement on Tuesday night to confirm that disciplinary proceedings have been opened against Luis Suarez "following an apparent breach of article 48 and/or article 57 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code."

Uruguay have until 5 p.m. Brasilia time to provide their "position and any documentary evidence they deem relevant." This can include match reports, statements from witnesses and video footage.

Match referee Marco Rodriguez of Mexico didn't appear to see the incident, and took no action at the time. However, according to the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee are responsible for "sanctioning serious infringements which have escaped the match officials' attention.

If the panel finds Suarez guilty of assaulting Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini, FIFA rules call for a ban of at least two matches, and up to a maximum of 24 months.

After evidence is collected, a decision will be reached and announced before Saturday, when Uruguay is scheduled to play Colombia in their Round of 16 match.