The English FA announced the sanctions on Tuesday, with Suarez having been accused by Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra of racism.

The French full-back had filed a complaint over comments the Uruguay forward was accused to have said during the 1-1 English Premier League draw between United and Liverpool at Anfield on October 15.

Suarez has 14 days to appeal the Independent Regulatory Commission's decision, with the ban suspended until an appeal process has been completed or the 14 days have expired.

A statement on the FA's website read: "An Independent Regulatory Commission has today (Tuesday, 20 December 2011) found a charge of misconduct against Luis Suarez proven, and have issued a suspension for a period of eight matches as well as fining him 40,000 pounds, pending appeal."

The statement said Suarez had been found guilty of using 'insulting words towards Mr Evra', which included 'a reference to Mr Evra's colour'.

The statement also said the Independent Regulatory Commission will provide written reasons for its decision.