Suarez ban to expire on weekend of first Clasico

The Uruguayan was handed a four-month ban by FIFA on June 26 for biting Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini during the 2014 World Cup group match.

Following the release of the La Liga fixtures, in an unlikely turn of events, Suarez’s ban will expire on the weekend ending October 26, which is when the season’s first Clasico will take place at the Bernabeu.

As things stand, Suarez would be able to play if the match was on a Sunday but not if the game was on Saturday.

FIFA confirmed that to Eurosport.es: "Luis Suárez is banned from taking part in any kind of football-related activity (administrative, sports or any other) for a period of four months starting from 26 June 2014 and ending 25 October 2014. He is able to take part in any football-related activity as of 26 October 2014 CET."

However, the terms of the former Liverpool striker’s ban means that he is unable to train with his new team-mates until that date, meaning that he will more than likely miss Barca’s clash with their bitter Spanish rivals. But if Suarez's appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport is successful, the striker will be able to line-up for the Catalans in their first league game of the season, at home to Elche.

The second Clasico of the season is due to take place on the weekend of March 22nd in Barcelona.

Champions Atletico Madrid will open their defence with a Madrid derby away at Rayo Vallecano.

Barcelona start with a home clash against Elche while Real also open at home against Cordoba.