888 to review Luis Suarez sponsorship

888 is “seriously reviewing” its sponsorship deal with Luis Suarez after FIFA launched an investigation into an alleged biting incident involving the Uruguay forward during last night’s World Cup match versus Italy.

Suarez, who plays his club football with Liverpool, recently signed a deal to become 888poker’s global ambassador in an agreement which would see the footballer take part in various branding initiatives during this summer’s tournament and beyond.

However, the future of this relationship is now in doubt after television pictures from the crucial group game appeared to show Suarez bite Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini on the shoulder in an off-the-ball clash.

Football governing body FIFA has since launched an investigation into the incident with many expecting Suarez to be hit with a lengthy ban should he be found guilty.

And 888 has been swift to respond to the controversy with the operator this morning releasing a statement in which it highlighted its commitment to fair play.

“Following the allegations made against Luis Suarez in regards to his behaviour during Uruguay’s World Cup match against Italy, 888poker is seriously reviewing its relationship with the player as we will not tolerate any unsporting behaviour,” a spokesperson for 888poker said.

Suarez is no stranger to controversy with the player having already served two domestic bans for biting opposition players when playing for Liverpool and for previous club Ajax. The striker was also found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra in 2011.

888poker currently has a cluster of brand ambassadors including former Australia cricketer Shane Warne and professional poker player Sofia Lövgren.