His reputation already dented, Zinedine Zidane faces possible sanctions for head-butting Marco Materazzi in the World Cup final.

Zidane, who retired after the July 9 final, will appear before a FIFA disciplinary panel Thursday in Zurich.

The former France captain could be fined, receive a symbolic ban and be stripped of his "Golden Ball" award as the best player in the tournament.

Zidane, who had a stellar 18-year career, said he attacked Materazzi because the Italian defender insulted his mother and sister.

Materazzi denied insulting Zidane's mother, and appeared last week before the FIFA committee. The Inter Milan player also faces a possible fine and match ban.