RIO DE JANEIRO: Uruguay star Luis Suarez could be facing a lengthy ban after he was charged by FIFA for allegedly biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup.

FIFA said early Wednesday that its disciplinary committee has opened proceedings against Suarez.

If the Liverpool striker - already banned twice before for biting - is found guilty of assaulting an opponent, FIFA rules call for a ban of at least two matches up to a maximum of 24 months.

FIFA asked the team to present evidence by 5pm Wednesday and a decision must be published before Saturday, when Uruguay play Colombia in a round-of-16 match.