For Blatter or worse: I did not resign as Fifa chief, insists Sepp

World football is facing more turmoil after Sepp Blatter said he has not resigned as Fifa president. The 79-year-old Swiss was thought to have ended his 17-year reign on 2 June amid claims of corruption in world football’s governing body. A Fifa statement confirmed a report in Swiss newspaper Blick, which said Blatter told a party: “I did not resign, I put myself and my office in the hands of the Fifa congress.” Blatter is now thought to be considering standing for re-election as president.

It’s time Fifa put an end to all this speculation, which is harming the sport, and give a final date for Blatter’s departure.

British MP Chris Bryant

Two criminal investigations into alleged Fifa corruption began in the week that Blatter was elected for a fifth term in charge. Four days after being voted president, Blatter - who is reportedly under investigation in the United States - said: “While I have a mandate from the membership of Fifa, I do not feel that I have a mandate from the entire world of football. Therefore, I have decided to lay down my mandate at an extraordinary elective congress. I will continue to exercise my functions as Fifa president until that election.” However, Blatter did not use the words ‘resign’ or 'resignation’. He did add, however, the election would be for his “successor” and said: “I shall not be a candidate.”

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