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Peruvian football officials lift ban on Pizarro, Farfan

Peruvian Football Federation officials have shortened a ban on three of the national squads top players — including Chelsea striker Claudio Pizarro — paving the way for their return as early as next week.

Pizarro, forward Jefferson Farfan — a new sign with Germany's Schalke — and Santiago Acasiete of Almeria, were slapped with an 18-month suspension in March for allegedly drinking alcohol and having a party in a luxury hotel in Lima, three days before Peru lost to Ecuador 5-1 in 2010 World Cup qualifiers last year.

The decision by the appeals board of federation's Justice Commission, released late Thursday, reduced the players' punishment to a three-month suspension, which the players will have completed on Sunday.

They were also fined US$10,000 (€6,381), which will be donated to a local children's hospital.

The appeals board upheld the 18-month suspension for Andres Mendoza, who was also fined US$20,000 (€12,762) for the alleged hotel party.

Uruguay routed Peru 6-0 in Montevideo last month in 2010 World Cup qualifiers, leaving Peru winless with three points from six matches and in last place in the 10-team region.

Peruvian football officials lift ban on Pizarro, Farfan - International Herald Tribune