Explained: FIFA loses its head after Sepp Blatter uses his
What made Sepp resign
Four days ago Blatter was celebrating his election as FIFA president for the fifth term. Amid the raging bribery scandal that rocked FIFA, prompting calls for him to step down, Blatter had told a Swiss television channel, “Why would I step down? That would mean I recognise that I did wrong.” On Tuesday, he decided to resign. Blatter spoke of not having the mandate “from the entire world of football”, to continue in his job. But reality could be otherwise. If the US justice department indictment of 14 people, including seven FIFA officials was not enough, reports of Blatter’s right-hand man, Jerome Valcke, being involved in the scandal could be the final straw that led to him stepping down. Blatter could perhaps sense the noose tightening and to save himself from further ignominy, may have resigned.
What next for FIFA
The next FIFA Congress is scheduled to be held in Mexico City on May 13, 2016. But Blatter has urged executive committee members to call an Extraordinary Congress where his successor could be chosen. But that could take time, given that FIFA will have to issue a notification announcing the election, the candidates will have to be identified and nominations filed. Then they also need to be given time to campaign. Domenico Scala, chairman of FIFA’s audit and compliance committee, feels election could happen between December 2015 and March 2016.
Platini, Ali…
UEFA president Michel Platini looks favourite to succeed Blatter. Platini was expected to take over from the Swiss once he retires. But Blatter reneged on his earlier decision to step down before the 2015 election. But it remains to be seen whether he can garner support from other confederations, who are wary of a Europe-backed FIFA. Jordan’s Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, brave enough to take on Blatter in the May 29 election, and losing, could be the other candidate. Moreover, he could be lot more acceptable to others simply because he is not from Europe. A possible Blatter stooge can’t be ruled out either, given that the Swiss still enjoys considerable clout.
