Nicolas Anelka handed 18-match France suspension

Nicolas Anelka has been handed a 18-match ban by the French Football Federation for his outburst at the World Cup.

The 31-year-old was sent home from the tournament after allegedly insulting former manager Raymond Domenech at half-time during France’s clash with Mexico in South Africa.

Other players banned by the FFF include Manchester United’s Patrice Evra (5), Bayern Munich’s Franck Ribery (3) and Lyon midfielder Jeremy Toulalan (1).

Barcelona left-back Eric Abidal did not receive a suspension despite attending the hearing held by the FFF earlier this month.

The remaining members of the 23-man squad escaped further punishment for their actions in South Africa following a one-game ban.

An FFF statement read: “Following the submission by the federal council dated August 6, 2010 relating to events occurring within the France team at the FIFA World Cup 2010, the federal commission for discipline of the FFF has taken the following decisions:

“Nicolas Anelka is sanctioned with an 18-game suspension from selection for the France team.

“A five-game suspension from selection for the France team has been issued to Patrice Evra.

“Franck Ribery will have to serve a three-game suspension.

“Jeremy Toulalan is punished with one-game suspension.

“The commission takes note of the explanation provided by Eric Abidal, who has not been sanctioned.”