FIFA Presidency: Prince Ali Bin-Hussein Officially Joins Race To Replace Blatter

Prince Ali, a former FIFA vice president, beaten by Blatter in May’s election, made his intentions known on Thursday, stating his desire to lift the dark cloud over the embattled football organization, and restore back its reputation.

He said; “We cannot change the past but Fifa can have a better future.

“We can ensure that Fifa regains the credibility to fulfil our obligations under our own statutes, to promote integrity, ethics and fair play.

“I have never lost sight of the fact that there are so many good and honest people within the global Fifa organisation. The dark cloud over Fifa’s leadership should not cast its shadow on our Member Associations and the thousands of volunteers who work tirelessly to bring the joy football to young boys and girls, and millions of fans the world over.

“The crisis at Fifa is a crisis of leadership. I believe in this organisation. Together we will make it great again.

“I am one of you, an FA President, and I know how hard you strive to define football. I am sure that Fifa can and will again become an organisation that earns the respect it deserves.

“For all of us these are dark times. Restoring Fifa’s credibility will not be an easy task, but together it can be done. For the good of the game and all who love it, I humbly ask for the honour of your support.

Meanwhile, UEFA leaders hold an emergency meeting on Thursday, after some members of the sport’s regional governing body demanded the suspended UEFA president explain the payments from Sepp Blatter.

Platini, head of the Union of European Football Associations, was suspended for 90 days last week over allegations that he accepted a $2 million payment from Blatter in 2011.

He is appealing his suspension in hopes of running for the FIFA presidency, but cannot register his candidacy while suspended. October 26 is the deadline to register.