SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JULY 24: FIFA Secretary-General Jerome Valcke speaks during a philatelic programme launch press conference ahead of the preliminary draw of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia at Konstantin Palace on July 24, 2015 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
FIFA's ethics committee has opened formal proceedings against suspended secretary general Jerome Valcke, after its investigators recommended a nine-year ban over accusations of corruption involving the sale of World Cup tickets.
The Frenchman, who has denied any wrongdoing in several alleged offences, also faces a 100,000 Swiss franc (approx £68,000) fine on charges including conflicts of interest, and offering and accepting gifts and other benefits.
Valcke's original 90-day suspension, which was due to expire on Tuesday, was extended by a further 45 days on Wednesday.
He was suspended after emails and documents were released which suggested he was aware that a Swiss marketing company was selling off World Cup and Confederation Cup tickets for almost five times their face value.
The emails and documents show Valcke signed off contracts with Swiss firm JB Sports Marketing AG for category one tickets for a number of matches.
The company also claims it entered into a profit-sharing agreement with Valcke - though no money changed hands - and he strongly denies asking for or receiving any money from JB Sports.
The judges gave no details of the case, citing Valcke's "privacy rights and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty." A hearing in Zurich is likely within weeks.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.