Cellino to appeal disqualification
LEEDS United owner Massimo Cellino is to launch an appeal against the Football League’s decision yesterday to disqualify him.
The League says the Italian businessman breached its its Owners’ and Directors’ Test after Mr Cellino was found guilty under Italian tax legislation relating to the non-payment of import duties on a boat, which resulted in a €600,000 fine.
Cellino told the press: “I’m going to show them they are wrong. I’m sure the lawyers of the League have not done a proper job.
“I’m not dishonest. I’m not guilty yet, that’s it. If I’m going to have to buy a ticket to watch the game I will do it.”
The order bans Mr Cellino from being a director of the club until March 18.
The Football League said: “The board considered detailed legal advice and agreed unanimously (with the exception of its chief executive, Shaun Harvey, who did not take part in the debate or vote having declared an interest) that Mr Cellino is subject to a disqualifying condition under the terms of the test.
“Mr Cellino is entitled to appeal the board’s decision to the PCC within 14 days.”
Leeds said it was in the process of taking legal advice on the reasoning of the League’s decision.
The club said: “The steps that the League wishes the club to take – to remove Mr Cellino only to re-appoint him in three months’ time – will be destabilising for the club, its supporters and sponsors and cannot be in the best interests of any party.”
