Top sponsors and football fans welcome FIFA president’s resignation
FIFA’s headline sponsors have welcomed the resignation of Sepp Blatter, who has stepped down as president as the football body becomes increasingly mired in controversy.
Today it has emerged that Blatter is now under investigation by US authorities as part of its continuing enquiry into corruption that saw seven senior FIFA officials arrested last week.
High profile FIFA sponsors including Visa, Coca-Cola, and McDonald’s reacted warmly to Blatter’s departure, but warned they still expected to see major changes implemented swiftly at the football governing body.
Visa
Visa said it was “encouraged” by Blatter’s departure. “This is a significant first step towards rebuilding public trust, but more work lies ahead,” the firm said.
“We repeat, however, that it is our expectation that FIFA will take swift and immediate steps towards addressing the issues within its organization to quickly rebuild a culture with strong ethical practices that will restore the reputation of the games for fans around the world,” the company added.”
McDonald’s
In a statement, fast-food restaurant McDonald’s said: “The allegations of corruption and questionable ethics within FIFA have overshadowed the game and taken away from the sport, players and fans.
“We’re hopeful that the changes being implemented within FIFA will be a big first step in positively reforming the organisation and gaining back trust from fans worldwide.”
Coca-Cola
The fizzy drinks company said: “We respect Mr Blatter’s decision. The announcement today is a positive step for the good of sport, football and its fans. Our expectation remains that FIFA will continue to act with urgency to take concrete actions to fully address all of the issues that have been raised and win back the trust of all who love the sport of football. We believe this decision will help FIFA transform itself rapidly into a much-needed 21st century structure and institution.”
Adidas
The sportswear manufacturer said: “We welcome FIFA’s commitment to change. As stated before, the Adidas Group is fully committed to creating a culture that promotes the highest standards of ethics and compliance.
“Today’s news marks a step in the right direction on FIFA’s path to establish and follow transparent compliance standards in everything it does.”
Twitter did its usual thing:
Blatter is apparently back in work at FIFA headquarters today. Probably has a fair bit to get through before he goes. pic.twitter.com/0rofOwLR1o
— Paddy Power (@paddypower) June 3, 2015
Mr Blatter, if you are going to flee Switzerland, the disguise needs more work: pic.twitter.com/v0PXiCBSuk
— Jeremy Vine (@theJeremyVine) June 3, 2015
Blatter announces his successor. -GC pic.twitter.com/wUijO4A8Yo
— AC Milan Club NYC (@ACMilanNYC) June 3, 2015
How the Internet saw #BlatterOut(Vine via @jtahh) http://t.co/LawKUBtkU9 https://t.co/z2KhX4Lyae
— Bleacher Report UK (@br_uk) June 3, 2015
Can someone let Sepp Blatter know they’re hiring at Chicken Cottage in Dalston?
— The Dolphin (@The_Dolphin_Pub) June 2, 2015
Only one man can replace #Blatterimo pic.twitter.com/CrdY4NkaZ4
— General Boles (@GeneralBoles) June 2, 2015
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