UEFA Reject Appeal by FC Sion for Reinstatement

European soccer’s governing body UEFA rejected an appeal by Switzerland based FC Sion, clearing the way for Celtic to play in the Europa League this season beginning with a game against Atletico Madrid on Thursday.

UEFA’s appeal body upheld an earlier ruling that Sion used ineligible players in qualifying matches against the Scottish club, according to a statement on the governing body’s website. The decision will allow Celtic to play in the group stage, beginning Sept. 15 against Atletico Madrid, although Sion had the option of appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport within 10 days.

Uefa’s statement read: “The Uefa Appeals Body today dealt with the appeal lodged by FC Sion against the decision of the Uefa Control and Disciplinary Body of 02 September to forfeit their two Uefa Europa League play-off ties played against Celtic FC on 18 and 25 August.

“As a consequence, Celtic FC remain qualified for the Uefa Europa League group stage and will play against Club Atletico de Madrid on Thursday 15 September.

“An appeal against this decision can be lodged to the Court of Arbitration for Sport within ten days of receipt of the written grounds for the decisions.”