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Fifa claims payment to FAI was 'loan' for stadium – live Fifa claims payment to FAI was 'loan' for stadium – live
(35 minutes later)
If you hadn’t noticed – and from the sheer volume of the Fifa scandal it’s perfectly reasonable if not – the Women’s World Cup is due to kick off on Saturday in Canada. Our Anna Kessel takes a look at how the tournament has exploded over the past two decades.
In 1991, 20 years after that discussion, Fifa organised the first official World Cup in China. The global governing body’s involvement brought status and recognition but in truth the World Cup struggled to live up to its grand nomenclature. For a start there was no winners’ prize money, no sponsor and the matches lasted just 80 minutes. In the final, when Michelle Akers of the USA put two goals past Norway, most of America did not even know about it because – unbelievably – the game was not broadcast in the United States.
Sweden played host in 1995, and with that tournament came, at last, 90-minute matches, though the women’s game had to wait until 2007 before prize money was introduced at $5.8m (£3.7m). It was America’s engagement in the sport, though, that really set the marker for the global game.
USA 1999 saw the competition expand from 12 teams to 16, while in the World Cup final 90,185 people turned out to watch Brandi Chastain’s famous penalty-scoring celebration at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles, a record crowd for a women’s sporting event to this day. The US tournament also launched female players as global stars, from Mia Hamm to the bra-wielding Chastain.
The 2007 World Cup was significant for England’s high-profile involvement, Kelly Smith’s boot kissing, and the debut of a Brazilian goalscoring genius, Marta, whosestunning semi-final goal against the USA delighted the world. By the time the World Cup came to Germany in 2011 there was a far greater awareness and interest in the sport than ever before.
Across 181 countries 62.8 million people watched a gripping final on TV as Japan beat the USA on penalties, becoming the first Asian country to win the World Cup. In Germany more people tuned in to the match than watched the Wladimir Klitschko v David Haye fight. A new Twitter record of 7,196 tweets per second was set, too – more than for William and Kate’s wedding or the death of Osama bin Laden.
You can read the entire story here.
The front pages of tomorrow’s first editions in the UK are being disseminated and today’s news has made splashy headlines on at least a couple, among them the Daily Star ...The front pages of tomorrow’s first editions in the UK are being disseminated and today’s news has made splashy headlines on at least a couple, among them the Daily Star ...
... and the Times.... and the Times.
Nick Harris of the excellent Sporting Intelligence makes a cogent point:Nick Harris of the excellent Sporting Intelligence makes a cogent point:
FIFA paying the Irish FA €5m to make a legal case go away is shocking. FIFA gave FOX the 2026 WC rights for the same reason. In February.FIFA paying the Irish FA €5m to make a legal case go away is shocking. FIFA gave FOX the 2026 WC rights for the same reason. In February.
That of course refers to Fifa’s eyebrow-raising decision to hand Fox the US broadcasting rights to the 2026 World Cup – in addition to the 2023 Women’s World Cup – without opening it to a tender process.That of course refers to Fifa’s eyebrow-raising decision to hand Fox the US broadcasting rights to the 2026 World Cup – in addition to the 2023 Women’s World Cup – without opening it to a tender process.
Fifa has effectively admitted handing a lucrative World Cup television rights contract to Rupert Murdoch’s Fox network in order to head off the threat of legal action over the decision to move the Qatar 2022 tournament to winter.Fifa has effectively admitted handing a lucrative World Cup television rights contract to Rupert Murdoch’s Fox network in order to head off the threat of legal action over the decision to move the Qatar 2022 tournament to winter.
Jérôme Valcke, the Fifa secretary general, said no rules had been broken in awarding the rights to the 2026 tournament to Fox and NBC-owned Telemundo in the US without a tender.Jérôme Valcke, the Fifa secretary general, said no rules had been broken in awarding the rights to the 2026 tournament to Fox and NBC-owned Telemundo in the US without a tender.
More as a refresher here.More as a refresher here.
The Football Association of Ireland have just now issued a statement addressing the €5m settlement agreement with Fifa to drop legal action over the Thierry Henry handball that kept the country out of the 2010 World Cup.The Football Association of Ireland have just now issued a statement addressing the €5m settlement agreement with Fifa to drop legal action over the Thierry Henry handball that kept the country out of the 2010 World Cup.
As previously reported, the FAI said it received €5m (£3.67m) to drop legal action over Thierry Henry’s controversial handball that prevented Ireland from reaching the World Cup, while Fifa later claimed it was $5m (£3.25m) loan to build a stadium that was subsequently written off. Owen Gibson reports:As previously reported, the FAI said it received €5m (£3.67m) to drop legal action over Thierry Henry’s controversial handball that prevented Ireland from reaching the World Cup, while Fifa later claimed it was $5m (£3.25m) loan to build a stadium that was subsequently written off. Owen Gibson reports:
FAI chief executive John Delaney confirmed for the first time that Fifa had agreed to the payment in order to avoid a protracted legal row. “We felt we had a legal case against Fifa because of how the World Cup play-off hadn’t worked out for us with the Henry handball,” he told RTE Radio 1.FAI chief executive John Delaney confirmed for the first time that Fifa had agreed to the payment in order to avoid a protracted legal row. “We felt we had a legal case against Fifa because of how the World Cup play-off hadn’t worked out for us with the Henry handball,” he told RTE Radio 1.
“Also the way Blatter behaved, if you remember on stage, having a snigger and having a laugh at us. That day when I went in, and I told him how I felt about him, there were some expletives used. We came to an agreement.”“Also the way Blatter behaved, if you remember on stage, having a snigger and having a laugh at us. That day when I went in, and I told him how I felt about him, there were some expletives used. We came to an agreement.”
He said the deal was signed and sealed within four days and was a “very good and legitimate deal” for the Irish FA. Ireland were winning 1-0 when Henry intentionally handled the ball and crossed for Gallas to equalise, taking France through to the finals.He said the deal was signed and sealed within four days and was a “very good and legitimate deal” for the Irish FA. Ireland were winning 1-0 when Henry intentionally handled the ball and crossed for Gallas to equalise, taking France through to the finals.
Read the full story here.Read the full story here.
Meanwhile in Vancouver, Fifa and Canada’s organizing committee are holding a news conference to present an overview of the Women’s World Cup, which kicks off Saturday at Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium.Meanwhile in Vancouver, Fifa and Canada’s organizing committee are holding a news conference to present an overview of the Women’s World Cup, which kicks off Saturday at Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium.
You can watch it here, but it seems to be going swimmingly so far.You can watch it here, but it seems to be going swimmingly so far.
Quite the opening FIFA World Cup presser in Vancouver. PR asks for no scandal Qs. Then only scandal Qs. Officials become agitated.Quite the opening FIFA World Cup presser in Vancouver. PR asks for no scandal Qs. Then only scandal Qs. Officials become agitated.
Just crossing the wire is this news item from our chief sport correspondent Owen Gibson, who reports the scope of the FBI’s investigation into Fifa corruption has further broadened to include the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.Just crossing the wire is this news item from our chief sport correspondent Owen Gibson, who reports the scope of the FBI’s investigation into Fifa corruption has further broadened to include the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
With the FBI examining links between disgraced former Brazilian football chief Ricardo Teixeira and embattled Fifa secretary general Jérôme Valcke, the investigation now encompasses three of the past five World Cups and the controversial award of the next two tournaments in Russia and Qatar.With the FBI examining links between disgraced former Brazilian football chief Ricardo Teixeira and embattled Fifa secretary general Jérôme Valcke, the investigation now encompasses three of the past five World Cups and the controversial award of the next two tournaments in Russia and Qatar.
In explosive testimony from former Fifa executive committee member Chuck Blazer unsealed by a New York court on Wednesday, he admitted receiving bribes from South Africa related to the hosting of the 2010 World Cup and facilitating the payment of a bribe related to the 1998 tournament from losing bidder Morocco.In explosive testimony from former Fifa executive committee member Chuck Blazer unsealed by a New York court on Wednesday, he admitted receiving bribes from South Africa related to the hosting of the 2010 World Cup and facilitating the payment of a bribe related to the 1998 tournament from losing bidder Morocco.
The FBI revealed this week that its own investigation had also widened to include the bidding processes for the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the controversial choice of Qatar to host the 2022 tournament.The FBI revealed this week that its own investigation had also widened to include the bidding processes for the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the controversial choice of Qatar to host the 2022 tournament.
The further revelations came as UK culture secretary John Whittingdale told the House of Commons that England was potentially “ready” to host the 2022 World Cup in the unlikely event the continental rotation policy was dropped and Qatar stripped of the tournament.The further revelations came as UK culture secretary John Whittingdale told the House of Commons that England was potentially “ready” to host the 2022 World Cup in the unlikely event the continental rotation policy was dropped and Qatar stripped of the tournament.
His comments risked playing to the perception in some parts of the world, fuelled by Russian president Vladimir Putin, that the American criminal investigation and English triumphalism at Blatter’s removal are motivated by bitterness at losing their respective World Cup bids.His comments risked playing to the perception in some parts of the world, fuelled by Russian president Vladimir Putin, that the American criminal investigation and English triumphalism at Blatter’s removal are motivated by bitterness at losing their respective World Cup bids.
Teixeira was not among those charged in last week’s damning US Department of Justice indictment, which alleged money laundering, tax evasion and kickbacks on an industrial scale among two generations of Fifa executives.Teixeira was not among those charged in last week’s damning US Department of Justice indictment, which alleged money laundering, tax evasion and kickbacks on an industrial scale among two generations of Fifa executives.
But the Brazilian newspaper O Estado de S Paulo has now reported that the FBI is examining the relationship between Valcke, Blatter’s longstanding secretary general and fixer, and Teixeira, the controversial Brazilian football chief who was head of the Brazil 2014 organising committee until he fled for Miami in 2012. Investigators are thought to be focusing on more than 1,000 documents signed by World Cup organisers in the runup to the tournament.But the Brazilian newspaper O Estado de S Paulo has now reported that the FBI is examining the relationship between Valcke, Blatter’s longstanding secretary general and fixer, and Teixeira, the controversial Brazilian football chief who was head of the Brazil 2014 organising committee until he fled for Miami in 2012. Investigators are thought to be focusing on more than 1,000 documents signed by World Cup organisers in the runup to the tournament.
You can read the full article here.You can read the full article here.
I’m handing over to Bryan Graham now, but I leave you with this tweet from our chief sports writer, Barney Ronay:I’m handing over to Bryan Graham now, but I leave you with this tweet from our chief sports writer, Barney Ronay:
Really starting to think we should look again at Italy 34. Mussolini seemed so convincing at the time. But the more I think about itReally starting to think we should look again at Italy 34. Mussolini seemed so convincing at the time. But the more I think about it
The BBC’s North America editor, Jon Sopel, writes on the perception that US justice has overreached when it comes to Fifa:The BBC’s North America editor, Jon Sopel, writes on the perception that US justice has overreached when it comes to Fifa:
Am loving what's happening to reform #FIFA ; but is long arm of US justice reaching too far. My blog: http://t.co/URBG2Opgh3Am loving what's happening to reform #FIFA ; but is long arm of US justice reaching too far. My blog: http://t.co/URBG2Opgh3
An interesting final paragraph:An interesting final paragraph:
Let us just imagine for a minute that instead of Qatar having won the 2022 bid, it had been the US. How would America respond if Russia announced it was to investigate how the World Cup was awarded to the US?Let us just imagine for a minute that instead of Qatar having won the 2022 bid, it had been the US. How would America respond if Russia announced it was to investigate how the World Cup was awarded to the US?
Maybe old Vladimir Putin had a point when he said after the FIFA arrests last week - what business is this of America?Maybe old Vladimir Putin had a point when he said after the FIFA arrests last week - what business is this of America?
It appears that the statement from Fifa saying the $5m payment to Ireland was merely a ‘loan’ for a stadium that was never built is genuine. It’s hard to tell a lot of the time because most of the stuff coming from Fifa these days is indistinguishable from a huge practical joke. I’m still convinced that Jack Warner isn’t a politician at all but some kind of brilliant performance artist.It appears that the statement from Fifa saying the $5m payment to Ireland was merely a ‘loan’ for a stadium that was never built is genuine. It’s hard to tell a lot of the time because most of the stuff coming from Fifa these days is indistinguishable from a huge practical joke. I’m still convinced that Jack Warner isn’t a politician at all but some kind of brilliant performance artist.
Fifa explain everything - they loaned the money to the FAI to build a stadium, then wrote it off when they didn't qualify for 2014. Simple.Fifa explain everything - they loaned the money to the FAI to build a stadium, then wrote it off when they didn't qualify for 2014. Simple.
While most (OK, all) of the entertainment today has been off the pitch for Ireland today, the national team have been in action. Appropriately enough, seeing as everyone was paying attention to a match that took place several years ago, the game was played at a closed ground. It ended 0-0. Here’s a brief report from PA:While most (OK, all) of the entertainment today has been off the pitch for Ireland today, the national team have been in action. Appropriately enough, seeing as everyone was paying attention to a match that took place several years ago, the game was played at a closed ground. It ended 0-0. Here’s a brief report from PA:
Martin O’Neill fielded two entirely different XIs as the Republic of Ireland played out a 0-0 draw with neighbours Northern Ireland in their behind-closed-doors friendly. The Republic boss rang the changes at half-time at the Aviva Stadium as he attempted to improve match-fitness levels ahead of Sunday’s friendly against England and the Euro 2016 qualifier against Scotland which follows it next weekend. O’Neill told FAI TV: “It was more than useful, it was very good, particularly for some of the players who had not played for quite some considerable time. “Also, funnily enough, in terms of numbers we were able to change the side at half-time, a completely different side for the second half, which is really what I wanted to do. “In terms of the opposition, they were very strong and it was great for us. Obviously Northern Ireland have been together for a number of days now - they had the game against Qatar - and they are looking quite strong, so for us it was excellent.”Martin O’Neill fielded two entirely different XIs as the Republic of Ireland played out a 0-0 draw with neighbours Northern Ireland in their behind-closed-doors friendly. The Republic boss rang the changes at half-time at the Aviva Stadium as he attempted to improve match-fitness levels ahead of Sunday’s friendly against England and the Euro 2016 qualifier against Scotland which follows it next weekend. O’Neill told FAI TV: “It was more than useful, it was very good, particularly for some of the players who had not played for quite some considerable time. “Also, funnily enough, in terms of numbers we were able to change the side at half-time, a completely different side for the second half, which is really what I wanted to do. “In terms of the opposition, they were very strong and it was great for us. Obviously Northern Ireland have been together for a number of days now - they had the game against Qatar - and they are looking quite strong, so for us it was excellent.”
This from Mark McCadden at the Irish Daily Star appears to be a statement from Fifa on the payment to Ireland after the Thierry Henry handball. If it’s genuine, Fifa says it was a loan, rather than a payment, which makes the whole business entirely above board:This from Mark McCadden at the Irish Daily Star appears to be a statement from Fifa on the payment to Ireland after the Thierry Henry handball. If it’s genuine, Fifa says it was a loan, rather than a payment, which makes the whole business entirely above board:
FIFA have had their say on the $5m pic.twitter.com/nKvyIRoKXlFIFA have had their say on the $5m pic.twitter.com/nKvyIRoKXl
There’s also the small point that there have been no signs of any brilliant football stadiums popping up in Ireland of late.There’s also the small point that there have been no signs of any brilliant football stadiums popping up in Ireland of late.
It looks like Fifa could well be discussed at the G7 meeting in Germany next week.It looks like Fifa could well be discussed at the G7 meeting in Germany next week.
BREAKING: White House says it would not be surprised if FIFA scandal is discussed by world leaders at next week's G7 summit. #SSNHQBREAKING: White House says it would not be surprised if FIFA scandal is discussed by world leaders at next week's G7 summit. #SSNHQ
Henryk Szadziewski tweets to bring attention to this editorial in a Chinese publication, the Global Times. It’s a defence of Sepp Blatter, and shares the widely held view around the world that the Fifa president has paid the price for not falling into line with US wishes. Here’s an extract from the editorial:Henryk Szadziewski tweets to bring attention to this editorial in a Chinese publication, the Global Times. It’s a defence of Sepp Blatter, and shares the widely held view around the world that the Fifa president has paid the price for not falling into line with US wishes. Here’s an extract from the editorial:
The US is adept at legalizing political issues. Viewing its domestic law as “international law,” the US carries out “selective law enforcement” on the international stage based on its own interests. It could be true that FIFA is corrupt, like many other international institutions, however, the scandals’ exposure happens to serve the interest of the US each time. It seems that whether the problems are to be investigated, it depends on Washington’s will.The US is adept at legalizing political issues. Viewing its domestic law as “international law,” the US carries out “selective law enforcement” on the international stage based on its own interests. It could be true that FIFA is corrupt, like many other international institutions, however, the scandals’ exposure happens to serve the interest of the US each time. It seems that whether the problems are to be investigated, it depends on Washington’s will.
You can read the full article here.You can read the full article here.
If you’re wondering about Domenico Scala, who will be helping Sepp Blatter clean up Fifa, ESPN have produced a nice profile. Before we rush to say he’s a stooge, ESPN mounts a brief defence:If you’re wondering about Domenico Scala, who will be helping Sepp Blatter clean up Fifa, ESPN have produced a nice profile. Before we rush to say he’s a stooge, ESPN mounts a brief defence:
It’s tempting to paint anyone handpicked by Blatter with a tainted brush. However, there is evidence that Scala recognized the obstacles facing him early on. “The biggest challenge at Fifa is the way Fifa is organized,” he said in 2012. “Fifa is a summary of its member associations, so Fifa belongs to its member associations. Therefore we cannot just impose regulations – we have to convince the member associations. That’s a big difference compared to a privately organized firm.It’s tempting to paint anyone handpicked by Blatter with a tainted brush. However, there is evidence that Scala recognized the obstacles facing him early on. “The biggest challenge at Fifa is the way Fifa is organized,” he said in 2012. “Fifa is a summary of its member associations, so Fifa belongs to its member associations. Therefore we cannot just impose regulations – we have to convince the member associations. That’s a big difference compared to a privately organized firm.
Suffice to say that Sepp’s earlier tweet got some interesting replies on Twitter. Most of them contain Very Bad Words or brilliant pices of libel. This one is representative, minus the Bad Words and libel. If you like your tweets more sweary, you know where to look:Suffice to say that Sepp’s earlier tweet got some interesting replies on Twitter. Most of them contain Very Bad Words or brilliant pices of libel. This one is representative, minus the Bad Words and libel. If you like your tweets more sweary, you know where to look:
Just in the nick of time then. @SeppBlatterJust in the nick of time then. @SeppBlatter
More on Sepp Blatter’s masterplan, as he assumes the role of saving Fifa. It’s tough work but someone has to do it. This is the Fifa president’s first public statement since he announced he was stepping down:More on Sepp Blatter’s masterplan, as he assumes the role of saving Fifa. It’s tough work but someone has to do it. This is the Fifa president’s first public statement since he announced he was stepping down:
I had a good, constructive meeting with [audit and compliance chairman] Mr Scala to establish a framework for action and a timetable. I am pleased to take advice and guidance from Mr Scala. I want a comprehensive program of reform and I am very aware that only the Fifa Congress can pass these reforms. Furthermore, the Executive Committee has a particular duty to share the responsibility of driving this process.I had a good, constructive meeting with [audit and compliance chairman] Mr Scala to establish a framework for action and a timetable. I am pleased to take advice and guidance from Mr Scala. I want a comprehensive program of reform and I am very aware that only the Fifa Congress can pass these reforms. Furthermore, the Executive Committee has a particular duty to share the responsibility of driving this process.
Meanwhile, at Fifa HQ, it’s just another day’s honest work for Sepp:Meanwhile, at Fifa HQ, it’s just another day’s honest work for Sepp:
Working hard on reforms after meeting Audit & Compliance Committee Independent Chairman Scala http://t.co/PQzpewvQz6 pic.twitter.com/FDPQeyFFNTWorking hard on reforms after meeting Audit & Compliance Committee Independent Chairman Scala http://t.co/PQzpewvQz6 pic.twitter.com/FDPQeyFFNT
For a man on a rumoured $10m a year, you think he could get someone in to tidy that shelf behind him.For a man on a rumoured $10m a year, you think he could get someone in to tidy that shelf behind him.
Here’s Alan Smith’s report on John Delaney’s rather staggering interview with RTE in which he admits the FAI received payment from Fifa in order to avoid a legal case over Thierry Henry’s handball in the 2010 World Cup play-off.Here’s Alan Smith’s report on John Delaney’s rather staggering interview with RTE in which he admits the FAI received payment from Fifa in order to avoid a legal case over Thierry Henry’s handball in the 2010 World Cup play-off.
Related: Fifa paid FAI after Thierry Henry handball, claims John DelaneyRelated: Fifa paid FAI after Thierry Henry handball, claims John Delaney
That’s all from me – I’m handing over to my colleague Tom Lutz who will continue to keep you abreast of the latest developments. Cheerio!That’s all from me – I’m handing over to my colleague Tom Lutz who will continue to keep you abreast of the latest developments. Cheerio!
Here’s an extract of Blatter’s press release, his first public statement since announcing his resignation two days ago, in which he says he has already started the process of reforming the governing body.Here’s an extract of Blatter’s press release, his first public statement since announcing his resignation two days ago, in which he says he has already started the process of reforming the governing body.
And we can all breathe easy it seems … both framework and timetable have been established.And we can all breathe easy it seems … both framework and timetable have been established.
I had a good, constructive meeting with Mr. Scala to establish a framework for action and a timetable. I am pleased to take advice and guidance from Mr. Scala. I want a comprehensive program of reform and I am very aware that only the Fifa Congress can pass these reforms. Furthermore, the Executive Committee has a particular duty to share the responsibility of driving this process.I had a good, constructive meeting with Mr. Scala to establish a framework for action and a timetable. I am pleased to take advice and guidance from Mr. Scala. I want a comprehensive program of reform and I am very aware that only the Fifa Congress can pass these reforms. Furthermore, the Executive Committee has a particular duty to share the responsibility of driving this process.
In other news …In other news …
Fifa press release... PRESIDENT BLATTER: REFORM WORK HAS ALREADY STARTED Oh, OK then.Fifa press release... PRESIDENT BLATTER: REFORM WORK HAS ALREADY STARTED Oh, OK then.
The mind boggles at how Roy Keane will be responding to the news. He had this to say at the time and he lest we forget, he and Delaney have history.The mind boggles at how Roy Keane will be responding to the news. He had this to say at the time and he lest we forget, he and Delaney have history.
Roy Keane issued a furious response to Ireland’s campaign for a replay of theirWorld Cup qualifier play-off second leg against France, saying “what goes around comes around” for the Football Association of Ireland.Roy Keane issued a furious response to Ireland’s campaign for a replay of theirWorld Cup qualifier play-off second leg against France, saying “what goes around comes around” for the Football Association of Ireland.
The Ipswich Town manager’s relationship with the FAI broke down following hiswalk-out from the Republic of Ireland training camp prior to the 2002 World Cup. And he dismissed their calls for “the honesty and integrity” of the sport to be protected in the wake of Thierry Henry’s handball which led to France’s winner in Paris on Wednesday night.The Ipswich Town manager’s relationship with the FAI broke down following hiswalk-out from the Republic of Ireland training camp prior to the 2002 World Cup. And he dismissed their calls for “the honesty and integrity” of the sport to be protected in the wake of Thierry Henry’s handball which led to France’s winner in Paris on Wednesday night.
Read the full story here.Read the full story here.
It’s worth noting that upon confirming the ‘agreement’ between Fifa and the FAI, Delaney was quick to deny that he had ever been offered a bribe: “No, no, no, no, no, no, no. Not on my salary,” he retorted before going on to offer his take on how Uefa measures up to the world governing body.It’s worth noting that upon confirming the ‘agreement’ between Fifa and the FAI, Delaney was quick to deny that he had ever been offered a bribe: “No, no, no, no, no, no, no. Not on my salary,” he retorted before going on to offer his take on how Uefa measures up to the world governing body.
It’s as clean as it gets but there are three UEFA members under suspsion, the Cypriot, the Spaniard and Turkish guy, they’re under investigation as well. But I was never in a position to award something so I was never awarding a championship or something like that. Look, I am paid to do a job and I know I’m paid very well, I’m very happy in the job, if anybody come up to me and offered me a bribe, I’d say, because you offered me a bribe, you’re not getting anything.It’s as clean as it gets but there are three UEFA members under suspsion, the Cypriot, the Spaniard and Turkish guy, they’re under investigation as well. But I was never in a position to award something so I was never awarding a championship or something like that. Look, I am paid to do a job and I know I’m paid very well, I’m very happy in the job, if anybody come up to me and offered me a bribe, I’d say, because you offered me a bribe, you’re not getting anything.
Here is the link to the RTE interview for those that want to listen to Delaney shooting the breeze, and here it is from the Irish broadcaster in the form of words.Here is the link to the RTE interview for those that want to listen to Delaney shooting the breeze, and here it is from the Irish broadcaster in the form of words.
More nuggets from Delaney’s RTE transcript on the way …More nuggets from Delaney’s RTE transcript on the way …
Delaney on Blatter’s ability to maintain his grip on the presidency (until now):Delaney on Blatter’s ability to maintain his grip on the presidency (until now):
I remember being at the Fifa Congress in Morocco when the guy from East Timor, they were just brought in as a member of Fifa. And four times in the East Timor’s president’s address, he called Blatter your excellency. He presented him with a sword of some kind. I turned to our Preisdent David Blood and said do you know if Blatter turned around and shoots somebody in the front row, East Timor would still probably still vote for him. That’s how he got revered. He was brilliant at it. You’ve got to give him some bit of credit, I don’t admire him at all but he was resilient, and it took a wave of momentum to finally get him stepping down. He was brilliant at dividing and conquering.I remember being at the Fifa Congress in Morocco when the guy from East Timor, they were just brought in as a member of Fifa. And four times in the East Timor’s president’s address, he called Blatter your excellency. He presented him with a sword of some kind. I turned to our Preisdent David Blood and said do you know if Blatter turned around and shoots somebody in the front row, East Timor would still probably still vote for him. That’s how he got revered. He was brilliant at it. You’ve got to give him some bit of credit, I don’t admire him at all but he was resilient, and it took a wave of momentum to finally get him stepping down. He was brilliant at dividing and conquering.
Here’s an in-depth profile on John Delaney for you to digest, penned by the quill of the Guardian’s Alan Smith …Here’s an in-depth profile on John Delaney for you to digest, penned by the quill of the Guardian’s Alan Smith …
… This was the leader of the country’s football association delving into the world of celebrity but nobody was surprised. He was recently the subject of a Partridgean online documentary called “John the Baptist” (because he has resurrected Irish football, apparently), and last year Sky ran a soft feature on him in which he claimed he could earn three times his salary of €360,000 elsewhere. Delaney remains at the head of Irish football as a “labour of love”. He has not given an interview to a football journalist since the aftermath of Euro 2012.… This was the leader of the country’s football association delving into the world of celebrity but nobody was surprised. He was recently the subject of a Partridgean online documentary called “John the Baptist” (because he has resurrected Irish football, apparently), and last year Sky ran a soft feature on him in which he claimed he could earn three times his salary of €360,000 elsewhere. Delaney remains at the head of Irish football as a “labour of love”. He has not given an interview to a football journalist since the aftermath of Euro 2012.
Delaney had been earning more than €430,000-a-year before taking pay cuts in 2010 and 2011, while many of the association’s workers on the ground were made redundant. In July, he agreed a new contract to take him up to 2019. There are incessant murmurs of discontent within the domestic game when it comes to the CEO. He is an expert in dealing with the convoluted politics of grassroots football and retains plenty of support from smaller clubs who have benefited from FAI investment – but his relationship with the League of Ireland is fraught.Delaney had been earning more than €430,000-a-year before taking pay cuts in 2010 and 2011, while many of the association’s workers on the ground were made redundant. In July, he agreed a new contract to take him up to 2019. There are incessant murmurs of discontent within the domestic game when it comes to the CEO. He is an expert in dealing with the convoluted politics of grassroots football and retains plenty of support from smaller clubs who have benefited from FAI investment – but his relationship with the League of Ireland is fraught.
To read the full story, click here.To read the full story, click here.
We’ve managed to get our hands on the transcript from Delaney’s interview with RTE, and it’s pretty damning stuff … (the figure put to him by the presenter was five million euros).We’ve managed to get our hands on the transcript from Delaney’s interview with RTE, and it’s pretty damning stuff … (the figure put to him by the presenter was five million euros).
We felt we had a legal case against Fifa because of how the World Cup play-off hadn’t worked out for us with the Henry handball.We felt we had a legal case against Fifa because of how the World Cup play-off hadn’t worked out for us with the Henry handball.
Also the way Blatter behaved, if you remember on stage, having a snigger and having a laugh at us. That day when I went in, and I told him how I felt about him, there were some expletives used. We came to an agreement.Also the way Blatter behaved, if you remember on stage, having a snigger and having a laugh at us. That day when I went in, and I told him how I felt about him, there were some expletives used. We came to an agreement.
That was a Thursday and on Monday the agreement was all signed and all done. It’s a very good agreement for the FAI and a very legitimate agreement for the FAI. I’m bound by confidentiality for naming the figure.That was a Thursday and on Monday the agreement was all signed and all done. It’s a very good agreement for the FAI and a very legitimate agreement for the FAI. I’m bound by confidentiality for naming the figure.
You’ve put a figure out there and fair play to you It was a payment to the association to not proceed with a legal case. In there they signed a confidentiality agreement where I can’t talk about the amount involved.You’ve put a figure out there and fair play to you It was a payment to the association to not proceed with a legal case. In there they signed a confidentiality agreement where I can’t talk about the amount involved.
You used a figure there, well done to you, but it was a very good and legitimate deal for the FAI.You used a figure there, well done to you, but it was a very good and legitimate deal for the FAI.
More from Delaney now – he was speaking on The Ray D’Arcy Show and has revealed he was not Sepp Blatter No1’s fan.More from Delaney now – he was speaking on The Ray D’Arcy Show and has revealed he was not Sepp Blatter No1’s fan.
“He met Emma, my partner, in Vienna recently,” said Delaney. “He stared at her for seven or eight seconds and he said, “I approve of your new girlfriend’”. I asked him to move on, move on please.”“He met Emma, my partner, in Vienna recently,” said Delaney. “He stared at her for seven or eight seconds and he said, “I approve of your new girlfriend’”. I asked him to move on, move on please.”
For the very few of you who do not remember aforementioned handball from Henry … here is the Guardian’s report from November 2009 on the handball that denied Republic of Ireland a place at the 2010 World Cup.For the very few of you who do not remember aforementioned handball from Henry … here is the Guardian’s report from November 2009 on the handball that denied Republic of Ireland a place at the 2010 World Cup.
Related: Irish fury at Thierry Henry's handball in World Cup qualifierRelated: Irish fury at Thierry Henry's handball in World Cup qualifier
Some intriguing news coming out of Ireland now. John Delaney, the chief executive of the Football Association of Ireland, has apparently been on Irish radio revealing that his organisation received five million euros from Fifa in 2009 in the wake of Thierry Henry’s infamous handball to avoid any legal action. Daniel O’Donnell of the Irish Independent writes on Twitter …Some intriguing news coming out of Ireland now. John Delaney, the chief executive of the Football Association of Ireland, has apparently been on Irish radio revealing that his organisation received five million euros from Fifa in 2009 in the wake of Thierry Henry’s infamous handball to avoid any legal action. Daniel O’Donnell of the Irish Independent writes on Twitter …
John Delaney confirms that FIFA paid FAI €5 million in 2009 after the Thierry Henry handball so they wouldn't proceed with a legal case.John Delaney confirms that FIFA paid FAI €5 million in 2009 after the Thierry Henry handball so they wouldn't proceed with a legal case.
Hello, hello, hello! Time for the Guardian’s very own review of Fifa’s £16m film, United Passions now. Gerard Depardieu as Jules Rimet, Jurassic Park’s Sam Neill as Joao Havelange and Tim Roth as Sepp Blatter … could it possibly go wrong? Yes it could, writes Jordan Hoffman, who suggests ‘ … as proof of corporate insanity it is a valuable case study …’Hello, hello, hello! Time for the Guardian’s very own review of Fifa’s £16m film, United Passions now. Gerard Depardieu as Jules Rimet, Jurassic Park’s Sam Neill as Joao Havelange and Tim Roth as Sepp Blatter … could it possibly go wrong? Yes it could, writes Jordan Hoffman, who suggests ‘ … as proof of corporate insanity it is a valuable case study …’
Related: United Passions review – Fifa propaganda is pure cinematic excrementRelated: United Passions review – Fifa propaganda is pure cinematic excrement
I’m handing the blog over to Gerard Meagher – here’s the day’s main developments, with Jack Warner’s evidence avalanche still to come:I’m handing the blog over to Gerard Meagher – here’s the day’s main developments, with Jack Warner’s evidence avalanche still to come:
• Brazil’s O Estado de S. Paulo report a new FBI focus is the relationship between Fifa’s Jérôme Valcke and the former Brazil FA head Ricardo Teixeira. Valcke, who worked for Brazil’s FA in 2007, and whose son works there now, denies wrongdoing.• Brazil’s O Estado de S. Paulo report a new FBI focus is the relationship between Fifa’s Jérôme Valcke and the former Brazil FA head Ricardo Teixeira. Valcke, who worked for Brazil’s FA in 2007, and whose son works there now, denies wrongdoing.
• Culture secretary John Whittingdale has said England will offer to host the 2022 World Cup if it is stripped from Qatar. He claimed: “We mounted a very impressive, if unsuccessful, bid to host the 2018 World Cup.”• Culture secretary John Whittingdale has said England will offer to host the 2022 World Cup if it is stripped from Qatar. He claimed: “We mounted a very impressive, if unsuccessful, bid to host the 2018 World Cup.”
• And South Africa’s organised crime unit, The Hawks, has launched an inquiry into the alleged $10m bribe paid to Warner, a day after sports minister Fikile Mbalula called it “an approved programme” and an “above board” donation. On Wednesday Mbalula told the media: “When we organised the World Cup we were dealing with people, not gangsters. The fact that later they turn into gangsters is not our problem.”• And South Africa’s organised crime unit, The Hawks, has launched an inquiry into the alleged $10m bribe paid to Warner, a day after sports minister Fikile Mbalula called it “an approved programme” and an “above board” donation. On Wednesday Mbalula told the media: “When we organised the World Cup we were dealing with people, not gangsters. The fact that later they turn into gangsters is not our problem.”
Contracts related to the 2014 World Cup are a new target for the FBI’s expanding investigation, according to O Estado de S. Paulo’s Jamil Chade. Chade reports that the focus of the investigation is “the relationship between Jérôme Valcke, secretary general of Fifa, and Ricardo Teixeira, former president of the CBF [Brazil’s FA] … In total, the tournament involved more than a thousand different contracts.”Contracts related to the 2014 World Cup are a new target for the FBI’s expanding investigation, according to O Estado de S. Paulo’s Jamil Chade. Chade reports that the focus of the investigation is “the relationship between Jérôme Valcke, secretary general of Fifa, and Ricardo Teixeira, former president of the CBF [Brazil’s FA] … In total, the tournament involved more than a thousand different contracts.”
Valcke – who worked as a consultant for the Brazil 2014 bid in 2007, and whose son now works for Brazil’s FA - has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. Teixiera, meanwhile, said in 2011 that two decades of “pathetic” press attention linking him to bribery, money laundering, embezzlement, fraud and tax evasion meant nothing. He told journalists: “I don’t care about that. Fuck you lot. I can do what I want to the press. Seriously, they cannot touch me.”Valcke – who worked as a consultant for the Brazil 2014 bid in 2007, and whose son now works for Brazil’s FA - has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. Teixiera, meanwhile, said in 2011 that two decades of “pathetic” press attention linking him to bribery, money laundering, embezzlement, fraud and tax evasion meant nothing. He told journalists: “I don’t care about that. Fuck you lot. I can do what I want to the press. Seriously, they cannot touch me.”
Valcke and Teixeira - best pals. pic.twitter.com/KMXdJzGHjYValcke and Teixeira - best pals. pic.twitter.com/KMXdJzGHjY
Qatar’s foreign minister Khaled al-Attiyah earlier repeated their consistent view – backed by Blatter – that the negative press they face is a result of western media racism: “It is very difficult for some to digest that an Arab Islamic country has this tournament, as if this right can’t be for an Arab state. I believe it is because of prejudice and racism that we have this bashing campaign.”Qatar’s foreign minister Khaled al-Attiyah earlier repeated their consistent view – backed by Blatter – that the negative press they face is a result of western media racism: “It is very difficult for some to digest that an Arab Islamic country has this tournament, as if this right can’t be for an Arab state. I believe it is because of prejudice and racism that we have this bashing campaign.”
The Asian Football Confederation have now issued a statement backing Qatar’s hosting rights:The Asian Football Confederation have now issued a statement backing Qatar’s hosting rights:
The AFC reiterates its support for the 2022 FIFA World Cup to be held in Qatar. Football is the world’s game that should set itself no geographical borders. The Gulf is a true football region, with some of the world’s most passionate football lovers, and Qatar is no exception.The AFC reiterates its support for the 2022 FIFA World Cup to be held in Qatar. Football is the world’s game that should set itself no geographical borders. The Gulf is a true football region, with some of the world’s most passionate football lovers, and Qatar is no exception.
“Qatar 2022 will be the first time the West Asian region will have had a chance to show this passion to the world, during what will be only the second FIFA World Cup to be held in Asia. The AFC and the whole Asian football community stands with Qatar and we all look forward to hosting the World Cup, and welcoming the world.”“Qatar 2022 will be the first time the West Asian region will have had a chance to show this passion to the world, during what will be only the second FIFA World Cup to be held in Asia. The AFC and the whole Asian football community stands with Qatar and we all look forward to hosting the World Cup, and welcoming the world.”
South Africa’s Tokyo Sexwale – in the news in 2011 when Sepp Blatter used a photograph of the pair embracing to counter suggestions he had a racism problem – has questioned whether the $10m paid to Jack Warner’s Concacaf was used properly. He told Bloomberg: “The question is did the money go to the right place? Who did it go to?” He called Blatter’s resignation “good for the game”, but said the mass arrests were “a shock … These are friends, these are colleagues, people we’ve enjoyed World Cup games with, dinners.”South Africa’s Tokyo Sexwale – in the news in 2011 when Sepp Blatter used a photograph of the pair embracing to counter suggestions he had a racism problem – has questioned whether the $10m paid to Jack Warner’s Concacaf was used properly. He told Bloomberg: “The question is did the money go to the right place? Who did it go to?” He called Blatter’s resignation “good for the game”, but said the mass arrests were “a shock … These are friends, these are colleagues, people we’ve enjoyed World Cup games with, dinners.”
Meanwhile, here’s Football Weekly Extra – featuring the most broadcast-friendly bits from our recent Football Weekly Live in Manchester event, in which AC Jimbo, Iain Macintosh, Barry Glendenning and James Horncastle debate Sepp’s exit.Meanwhile, here’s Football Weekly Extra – featuring the most broadcast-friendly bits from our recent Football Weekly Live in Manchester event, in which AC Jimbo, Iain Macintosh, Barry Glendenning and James Horncastle debate Sepp’s exit.
Ever wonder what Mohamed bin Hammam did next? His official 2011 Fifa election campaign website mohamedbinhammam.com has a new set of priorities these days.Ever wonder what Mohamed bin Hammam did next? His official 2011 Fifa election campaign website mohamedbinhammam.com has a new set of priorities these days.
There’s plenty of debate over culture secretary John Whittingdale’s line that England are ready to host in 2022 if Qatar is stripped of the tournament. Partly because of his justification that “England mounted a very impressive bid to host in 2018” – a £21m bid which gave Mrs Jack Warner a £230 handbag and attacked Panorama’s Fifa exposé as “an embarassment to the BBC”; partly because it plays into Sepp Blatter’s narrative. Rory Smith of The Times puts it like this:There’s plenty of debate over culture secretary John Whittingdale’s line that England are ready to host in 2022 if Qatar is stripped of the tournament. Partly because of his justification that “England mounted a very impressive bid to host in 2018” – a £21m bid which gave Mrs Jack Warner a £230 handbag and attacked Panorama’s Fifa exposé as “an embarassment to the BBC”; partly because it plays into Sepp Blatter’s narrative. Rory Smith of The Times puts it like this:
Every time a politician says England could host the 2018/22 WC, Blatter's argument he was deposed because of sour grapes is strengthened.Every time a politician says England could host the 2018/22 WC, Blatter's argument he was deposed because of sour grapes is strengthened.
It detracts from everything that's been done, deepens divides and makes genuine change harder. So, for f***'s sake, stop it.It detracts from everything that's been done, deepens divides and makes genuine change harder. So, for f***'s sake, stop it.
• No word yet on Jack Warner’s evidence “avalanche” relating to “certain transactions at Fifa” – but here’s how his 2011 evidence “tsunami” panned out.• No word yet on Jack Warner’s evidence “avalanche” relating to “certain transactions at Fifa” – but here’s how his 2011 evidence “tsunami” panned out.
• South Africa’s organised crime unit, The Hawks, has launched an inquiry into the alleged $10m bribe, a day after sports minister Fikile Mbalula called it “an approved programme” and an “above board” donation. On Wednesday Mbalula told the media: “When we organised the World Cup we were dealing with people, not gangsters. The fact that later they turn into gangsters is not our problem.”• South Africa’s organised crime unit, The Hawks, has launched an inquiry into the alleged $10m bribe, a day after sports minister Fikile Mbalula called it “an approved programme” and an “above board” donation. On Wednesday Mbalula told the media: “When we organised the World Cup we were dealing with people, not gangsters. The fact that later they turn into gangsters is not our problem.”
• Culture secretary John Whittingdale has said England will offer to host the 2022 World Cup if it is stripped from Qatar: “We have the facilities in this country and of course we did mount a very impressive, if unsuccessful bid to host the 2018 World Cup.” Shadow culture secretary Chris Bryant said the BBC and ITV should not pay for World Cup TV rights until the 2018/22 votes have been re-run, and shadow sports minister Clive Efford said: “I wonder about these people at the top of Fifa, whether they have actually been to a football match where they have bought their own ticket, whether they have actually followed a team week in and week out, whether they have pulled on a football shirt and actually ever played in a match. We really need to get rid of these people at the top of the game.”• Culture secretary John Whittingdale has said England will offer to host the 2022 World Cup if it is stripped from Qatar: “We have the facilities in this country and of course we did mount a very impressive, if unsuccessful bid to host the 2018 World Cup.” Shadow culture secretary Chris Bryant said the BBC and ITV should not pay for World Cup TV rights until the 2018/22 votes have been re-run, and shadow sports minister Clive Efford said: “I wonder about these people at the top of Fifa, whether they have actually been to a football match where they have bought their own ticket, whether they have actually followed a team week in and week out, whether they have pulled on a football shirt and actually ever played in a match. We really need to get rid of these people at the top of the game.”
• And Russia’s officials have again defended their right to host the 2018 tournament. Sports minister Vitaly Mutko told The Guardian: “We’re not planning to cancel anything, no-one is thinking of cancelling anything. Who is considering cancellation? You raise this question and answer it yourselves. Everything is going according to plan.” Organising committee head Alexei Sorokin said: “We’re not afraid of anything. We’re organising the World Cup. If some are trying to take it away, that’s their business.”• And Russia’s officials have again defended their right to host the 2018 tournament. Sports minister Vitaly Mutko told The Guardian: “We’re not planning to cancel anything, no-one is thinking of cancelling anything. Who is considering cancellation? You raise this question and answer it yourselves. Everything is going according to plan.” Organising committee head Alexei Sorokin said: “We’re not afraid of anything. We’re organising the World Cup. If some are trying to take it away, that’s their business.”
Chuck Blazer’s blog - attracting a whole new audience these days - includes a fine “Chuck with…” slideshow of celebrity encounters. In among them is this friendly scene, from happier times. Chuck with Fifa’s next president?Chuck Blazer’s blog - attracting a whole new audience these days - includes a fine “Chuck with…” slideshow of celebrity encounters. In among them is this friendly scene, from happier times. Chuck with Fifa’s next president?
More from Reuters on news that South Africa’s organised crime unit have opened a preliminary investigation into the alleged $10m bribe paid to Jack Warner.More from Reuters on news that South Africa’s organised crime unit have opened a preliminary investigation into the alleged $10m bribe paid to Jack Warner.
“The Hawks, formally known as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, said their initial assessment would determine whether a full investigation was needed, a decision which would be announced next week. Hawks spokesman Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi said: ‘If the investigations reveal there is a case to be answered, we will then inform other stakeholders’.“The Hawks, formally known as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, said their initial assessment would determine whether a full investigation was needed, a decision which would be announced next week. Hawks spokesman Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi said: ‘If the investigations reveal there is a case to be answered, we will then inform other stakeholders’.
“Freedom Front Plus, a small right-wing political party that advocates for South Africa’s formerly dominant white minority, said on Thursday it had submitted an affidavit asking the Hawks to investigate the South African FA. ‘We are hoping to understand what happened and also get an explanation from local football officials,’ Jennifer Rautenbach, the legal advisor to the party told Reuters. ‘We asked specifically that they look at SAFA officials involved.’”“Freedom Front Plus, a small right-wing political party that advocates for South Africa’s formerly dominant white minority, said on Thursday it had submitted an affidavit asking the Hawks to investigate the South African FA. ‘We are hoping to understand what happened and also get an explanation from local football officials,’ Jennifer Rautenbach, the legal advisor to the party told Reuters. ‘We asked specifically that they look at SAFA officials involved.’”
Here’s a question from below the line:Here’s a question from below the line:
Is the Sunshine Newspaper running a live blog on its website?Is the Sunshine Newspaper running a live blog on its website?
Not yet. Must be an oversight. When Jack Warner launched his own paper in Trinidad in 2013 he promised Sunshine would counter the “unholy, dirty” media smears against him, and take a lead on exposing corruption among his rivals: “Truth, when crushed to the ground, will always rise”. He wrote in this early editorial:Not yet. Must be an oversight. When Jack Warner launched his own paper in Trinidad in 2013 he promised Sunshine would counter the “unholy, dirty” media smears against him, and take a lead on exposing corruption among his rivals: “Truth, when crushed to the ground, will always rise”. He wrote in this early editorial:
“I have been the victim of many stories by the media, most of which have been false, and while I too at times in protest stood out against the media, I never found any pleasure in humiliating members of that noble profession. I have recognised their worth not only as defenders of our democracy, but also protectors of our rights and our freedoms… Today the Sunshine stands in defence of our hard working journalists.” Enjoy the rest here.“I have been the victim of many stories by the media, most of which have been false, and while I too at times in protest stood out against the media, I never found any pleasure in humiliating members of that noble profession. I have recognised their worth not only as defenders of our democracy, but also protectors of our rights and our freedoms… Today the Sunshine stands in defence of our hard working journalists.” Enjoy the rest here.
If you didn’t read all 40 pages on Wednesday night, here’s Chuck Blazer’s testimony in full - including the judge rebranding Fifa a “racketeering influenced corrupt organisation”. Rico for short.If you didn’t read all 40 pages on Wednesday night, here’s Chuck Blazer’s testimony in full - including the judge rebranding Fifa a “racketeering influenced corrupt organisation”. Rico for short.
Chuck Blazer’s testimony to the FBI – read the full statement http://t.co/vNMC1tcKVo pic.twitter.com/WJVb4NiXEjChuck Blazer’s testimony to the FBI – read the full statement http://t.co/vNMC1tcKVo pic.twitter.com/WJVb4NiXEj
Russia’s officials, meanwhile, have again defended their right to host in 2018. Asked by The Guardian’s Mark Rice-Oxley in Moscow whether the loss of Blatter could trigger a re-vote, sports minister Vitaly Mutko expanded on his earlier statement: “It is not the decision of the president, it’s the decision of the whole of Fifa. Russia is fulfilling all its obligations.” He added:Russia’s officials, meanwhile, have again defended their right to host in 2018. Asked by The Guardian’s Mark Rice-Oxley in Moscow whether the loss of Blatter could trigger a re-vote, sports minister Vitaly Mutko expanded on his earlier statement: “It is not the decision of the president, it’s the decision of the whole of Fifa. Russia is fulfilling all its obligations.” He added:
“Russia doesn’t own the World Cup, Russia just offered its services and Fifa accepted. Political support has been guaranteed at a high level for the games, we have a government programme, we are realising all the obligations that we set for ourselves and Fifa. Russia is a very conscientious country regarding these issues, and we always fulfill our obligations.“Russia doesn’t own the World Cup, Russia just offered its services and Fifa accepted. Political support has been guaranteed at a high level for the games, we have a government programme, we are realising all the obligations that we set for ourselves and Fifa. Russia is a very conscientious country regarding these issues, and we always fulfill our obligations.
“I don’t see any problem, everything is going according to plan, everything’s moving along. We’re not planning to cancel anything, no-one is thinking of cancelling anything. Who is considering cancellation? You raise this question and answer it yourselves. Everything is going according to plan, Russia is systematically preparing for the World Cup, I can’t add anything else besides that. There are no organisational defects here, and I don’t see any risks why Russia shouldn’t hold the World Cup.”“I don’t see any problem, everything is going according to plan, everything’s moving along. We’re not planning to cancel anything, no-one is thinking of cancelling anything. Who is considering cancellation? You raise this question and answer it yourselves. Everything is going according to plan, Russia is systematically preparing for the World Cup, I can’t add anything else besides that. There are no organisational defects here, and I don’t see any risks why Russia shouldn’t hold the World Cup.”
Alexei Sorokin, head of the 2018 organising committee, said: “We’re not afraid of anything. We’re organising the World Cup. If some are trying to take it away, that’s their business.”Alexei Sorokin, head of the 2018 organising committee, said: “We’re not afraid of anything. We’re organising the World Cup. If some are trying to take it away, that’s their business.”
However, Whittingdale also backed FA chairman Greg Dyke’s view that, with the 2018 tournament in Russia, it may be unlikely that another European nation would be granted the 2022 edition.However, Whittingdale also backed FA chairman Greg Dyke’s view that, with the 2018 tournament in Russia, it may be unlikely that another European nation would be granted the 2022 edition.
“In terms of the decision to hold the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, that is obviously something which we are watching the investigation, but at the moment that decision stands. If it were decided to change that, I think as the chairman of the English FA observed, if Russia hosts the World Cup in 2018 it does seem very unlikely that another European country would host it in 2022.“In terms of the decision to hold the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, that is obviously something which we are watching the investigation, but at the moment that decision stands. If it were decided to change that, I think as the chairman of the English FA observed, if Russia hosts the World Cup in 2018 it does seem very unlikely that another European country would host it in 2022.
“But obviously if Fifa came forward and asked us to consider hosting it, we have the facilities in this country and of course we did mount a very impressive, if unsuccessful bid to host the 2018 World Cup.”“But obviously if Fifa came forward and asked us to consider hosting it, we have the facilities in this country and of course we did mount a very impressive, if unsuccessful bid to host the 2018 World Cup.”
Also from the debate:Also from the debate:
Chris Bryant, shadow culture secretary, says BBC and ITV should not pay for W Cup rights until 2018/22 votes rerun (via @faisalislam).Chris Bryant, shadow culture secretary, says BBC and ITV should not pay for W Cup rights until 2018/22 votes rerun (via @faisalislam).
Culture secretary John Whittingdale has said England will offer to host the 2022 World Cup if it is stripped from Qatar over corruption claims. The Press Association report: “Mr Whittingdale said the country has the facilities and mounted an impressive, if unsuccessful, bid to host the 2018 World Cup, and so could host the 2022 event if asked by Fifa. He spoke as MPs asked whether England could step in to host the World Cup if allegations that the bid process for the Qatar tournament was corrupt are found to be true.”Culture secretary John Whittingdale has said England will offer to host the 2022 World Cup if it is stripped from Qatar over corruption claims. The Press Association report: “Mr Whittingdale said the country has the facilities and mounted an impressive, if unsuccessful, bid to host the 2018 World Cup, and so could host the 2022 event if asked by Fifa. He spoke as MPs asked whether England could step in to host the World Cup if allegations that the bid process for the Qatar tournament was corrupt are found to be true.”
24 hours after South Africa’s minister of sport Fikile Mbalula denied the country had paid any bribes to Fifa officials, the nation’s organised crime unit has confirmed it is investigating bribery allegations, having been provided with documents by an opposition political party. The unit’s spokesman, Hangwani Mulaudzi, told Associated Press a file has been opened, with “investigators looking into the matter”.24 hours after South Africa’s minister of sport Fikile Mbalula denied the country had paid any bribes to Fifa officials, the nation’s organised crime unit has confirmed it is investigating bribery allegations, having been provided with documents by an opposition political party. The unit’s spokesman, Hangwani Mulaudzi, told Associated Press a file has been opened, with “investigators looking into the matter”.
On Wednesday Mbalula told a press conference: “When we organised the World Cup we were dealing with people, not gangsters. The fact that later they turn into gangsters is not our problem. We can not check everybody with sniffer dogs.”On Wednesday Mbalula told a press conference: “When we organised the World Cup we were dealing with people, not gangsters. The fact that later they turn into gangsters is not our problem. We can not check everybody with sniffer dogs.”
Avalanche causer Jack Warner hasn’t always been so up front. In 2006 he reacted to journalist Andrew Jennings’ attempts to question him by making two references to Jennings’ dead mother, then telling him “I would spit on you – but I will not dignify you with my spit”. He later told supporters: “No foreigner, particularly a white foreigner, will come to my country and harass me.” His rebuttals weren’t always so sophisticated, though:Avalanche causer Jack Warner hasn’t always been so up front. In 2006 he reacted to journalist Andrew Jennings’ attempts to question him by making two references to Jennings’ dead mother, then telling him “I would spit on you – but I will not dignify you with my spit”. He later told supporters: “No foreigner, particularly a white foreigner, will come to my country and harass me.” His rebuttals weren’t always so sophisticated, though:
Here he is in more forthcoming mood – setting out his avalanche plan in Marabella on Wednesday. “Blatter knows why he fell. If there is one other person who knows, I do.”Here he is in more forthcoming mood – setting out his avalanche plan in Marabella on Wednesday. “Blatter knows why he fell. If there is one other person who knows, I do.”
Russia’s sports minister Vitaly Mutko, quoted by the RIA agency, has again stated: “There is no risk to Russia hosting the World Cup.” Mutko earlier called Sepp Blatter’s pre-resignation “a courageous decision with love for Fifa”, adding: “Now it’s important to offer the football world a single leader who will gain universal support and defend Fifa from attacks.”Russia’s sports minister Vitaly Mutko, quoted by the RIA agency, has again stated: “There is no risk to Russia hosting the World Cup.” Mutko earlier called Sepp Blatter’s pre-resignation “a courageous decision with love for Fifa”, adding: “Now it’s important to offer the football world a single leader who will gain universal support and defend Fifa from attacks.”
(In 2010 Mutko attacked the English press for alleging corruption in Russian sport, days before a Russian federal audit chamber report on spending at his ministry alleged he had claimed expenses for 97 breakfasts eaten during a 20-day trip to Vancouver. Mutko called the report “utter bullshit and complete nonsense”.)(In 2010 Mutko attacked the English press for alleging corruption in Russian sport, days before a Russian federal audit chamber report on spending at his ministry alleged he had claimed expenses for 97 breakfasts eaten during a 20-day trip to Vancouver. Mutko called the report “utter bullshit and complete nonsense”.)
Meanwhile, in Australia, federal police are investigating a $500,000 donation made to Jack Warner’s Concacaf during their bidding process.Meanwhile, in Australia, federal police are investigating a $500,000 donation made to Jack Warner’s Concacaf during their bidding process.
Chuck Blazer’s previous public statements on corruption include some – even by Fifa standards – choice lines. In 2011, leading the clean-up against Mohamed bin Hammam, he praised the Qatari’s lifetime ban as a deterrent to bribe-takers. Blazer said:Chuck Blazer’s previous public statements on corruption include some – even by Fifa standards – choice lines. In 2011, leading the clean-up against Mohamed bin Hammam, he praised the Qatari’s lifetime ban as a deterrent to bribe-takers. Blazer said:
“I learned through some members that cash was being offered to members of our confederation for their votes and to me that’s about as bad a situation as I can imagine. I believe vote-buying is unacceptable and I felt that had to be said widely and clearly, and I am very glad the ethics committee has confirmed that, regarding bribery, we have zero tolerance.”“I learned through some members that cash was being offered to members of our confederation for their votes and to me that’s about as bad a situation as I can imagine. I believe vote-buying is unacceptable and I felt that had to be said widely and clearly, and I am very glad the ethics committee has confirmed that, regarding bribery, we have zero tolerance.”
He went on: “It sets a precedent and one that I fully support. It’s a very good day for football in that it has been demonstrated that the process we adopted five years ago with the ethics code and committee is able to work. The fact we have suffered suspensions is sad but it will send notice to anybody else that might be considering that type of corrupt activity that Fifa is not the place to try it.”He went on: “It sets a precedent and one that I fully support. It’s a very good day for football in that it has been demonstrated that the process we adopted five years ago with the ethics code and committee is able to work. The fact we have suffered suspensions is sad but it will send notice to anybody else that might be considering that type of corrupt activity that Fifa is not the place to try it.”
Chuck Blazer. Like so many of this cartoonish gallery of Fifa rogues, you couldn't make him up. pic.twitter.com/Ra24A3b3JbChuck Blazer. Like so many of this cartoonish gallery of Fifa rogues, you couldn't make him up. pic.twitter.com/Ra24A3b3Jb
What will Jack Warner’s “avalanche” reveal? Clues may lie in his 2011 “tsunami” - the last time he threatened to take Fifa apart. Warner, reacting to bribery allegations made against him on the eve of the 2011 Fifa presidential election, told the Trinidad Express:What will Jack Warner’s “avalanche” reveal? Clues may lie in his 2011 “tsunami” - the last time he threatened to take Fifa apart. Warner, reacting to bribery allegations made against him on the eve of the 2011 Fifa presidential election, told the Trinidad Express:
“I tell you something, in the next couple days you will see a football tsunami that will hit Fifa and the world that will shock you. The time has come when I must stop playing dead so you’ll see it, it’s coming, trust me you’ll see it by now and Monday. I have been here for 29 consecutive years and if the worst happen, the worst happen.“I tell you something, in the next couple days you will see a football tsunami that will hit Fifa and the world that will shock you. The time has come when I must stop playing dead so you’ll see it, it’s coming, trust me you’ll see it by now and Monday. I have been here for 29 consecutive years and if the worst happen, the worst happen.
“I have lived three score and almost ten and my Jack hasn’t been hanged as yet, why should it be hung now? By whom? The American Chuck Blazer? His American lawyer John Collins? Give me a break. I am not the faint-hearted you know ... Let them go ahead, I have no problem with that. But I’ll tell you something, I will hold my head high to the very end because, I repeat here again, I am not guilty of a single iota of wrongdoing.”“I have lived three score and almost ten and my Jack hasn’t been hanged as yet, why should it be hung now? By whom? The American Chuck Blazer? His American lawyer John Collins? Give me a break. I am not the faint-hearted you know ... Let them go ahead, I have no problem with that. But I’ll tell you something, I will hold my head high to the very end because, I repeat here again, I am not guilty of a single iota of wrongdoing.”
When it came, the tsunami attacked his in-house accuser Chuck Blazer; revealed an email sent by Jérôme Valcke in which Valcke referred to Qatar having “bought the WC” – Valcke said later he was misinterpreted – and accused Blatter of apportioning Fifa funds for his own political ends in the final weeks before the election. Warner wrote: “I also indicated that at the Miami Concacaf Congress on 3 May Mr Blatter made a gift of $1m to Concacaf to spend as it deems fit. This annoyed [Uefa’s] president Michel Platini who was present and he approached Valcke complaining that Mr Blatter had no permission from the finance committee to make this gift, to which Jérôme replied he will find the money for Mr Blatter.”When it came, the tsunami attacked his in-house accuser Chuck Blazer; revealed an email sent by Jérôme Valcke in which Valcke referred to Qatar having “bought the WC” – Valcke said later he was misinterpreted – and accused Blatter of apportioning Fifa funds for his own political ends in the final weeks before the election. Warner wrote: “I also indicated that at the Miami Concacaf Congress on 3 May Mr Blatter made a gift of $1m to Concacaf to spend as it deems fit. This annoyed [Uefa’s] president Michel Platini who was present and he approached Valcke complaining that Mr Blatter had no permission from the finance committee to make this gift, to which Jérôme replied he will find the money for Mr Blatter.”
Platini said he had been having “a joke”; everyone accused denied wrongdoing; and the election went ahead as planned.Platini said he had been having “a joke”; everyone accused denied wrongdoing; and the election went ahead as planned.
So the great summer of sport corruption continues. It’s a fortnight since Sepp Blatter tweeted this:So the great summer of sport corruption continues. It’s a fortnight since Sepp Blatter tweeted this:
FIFA is 111 years old today. The next 2 months will showcase some of our key events. http://t.co/JHChnlFW3p pic.twitter.com/e3POqKodwYFIFA is 111 years old today. The next 2 months will showcase some of our key events. http://t.co/JHChnlFW3p pic.twitter.com/e3POqKodwY
It’s almost as if he knew. Here’s where we stand:It’s almost as if he knew. Here’s where we stand:
• Jack Warner - who denies racketeering conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy (2 counts), wire fraud (2 counts), money laundering conspiracy (2 counts) and money laundering - has promised to start a Fifa “avalanche” by exposing “certain transactions at Fifa, including – but not limited to – its president, Mr Sepp Blatter”.• Jack Warner - who denies racketeering conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy (2 counts), wire fraud (2 counts), money laundering conspiracy (2 counts) and money laundering - has promised to start a Fifa “avalanche” by exposing “certain transactions at Fifa, including – but not limited to – its president, Mr Sepp Blatter”.
• Chuck Blazer’s 2013 testimony, unsealed yesterday, included the lines: “I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes” related to the 2010 World Cup; and: “Beginning in or about 1993 and continuing through the early 2000s, I and others agreed to accept bribes and kickbacks in conjunction with the broadcast and other rights to the 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2003 Gold Cups.”• Chuck Blazer’s 2013 testimony, unsealed yesterday, included the lines: “I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes” related to the 2010 World Cup; and: “Beginning in or about 1993 and continuing through the early 2000s, I and others agreed to accept bribes and kickbacks in conjunction with the broadcast and other rights to the 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2003 Gold Cups.”
• The judge in the case gave Fifa a neat rebrand, referring to a “racketeering influenced corrupt organisation” - the terminology used in organised crime cases.• The judge in the case gave Fifa a neat rebrand, referring to a “racketeering influenced corrupt organisation” - the terminology used in organised crime cases.
• Venezuela’s FA headquarters have been raided as part of the investigation, according to Reuters: “Military intelligence raided the headquarters of the FVF on Wednesday as part of a corruption investigation following the arrest of its former president Rafael Esquivel in Switzerland.”• Venezuela’s FA headquarters have been raided as part of the investigation, according to Reuters: “Military intelligence raided the headquarters of the FVF on Wednesday as part of a corruption investigation following the arrest of its former president Rafael Esquivel in Switzerland.”
• And Qatar have – again – pinned the negative headlines on racist western media. Foreign Minister Khaled al-Attiyah: “It is very difficult for some to digest that an Arab Islamic country has this tournament, as if this right can’t be for an Arab state. I believe it is because of prejudice and racism that we have this bashing campaign against Qatar.”• And Qatar have – again – pinned the negative headlines on racist western media. Foreign Minister Khaled al-Attiyah: “It is very difficult for some to digest that an Arab Islamic country has this tournament, as if this right can’t be for an Arab state. I believe it is because of prejudice and racism that we have this bashing campaign against Qatar.”
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
I’m handing over the live blog now to my colleague David Hills, who will steer you through the next few hours of … whatever comes next.I’m handing over the live blog now to my colleague David Hills, who will steer you through the next few hours of … whatever comes next.
Thanks for reading and your comments: stick around.Thanks for reading and your comments: stick around.
Richard Caborn, a former UK sports minister and ambassador for England’s 2018 World Cup bid is being interviewed on the BBC’s Today programme.Richard Caborn, a former UK sports minister and ambassador for England’s 2018 World Cup bid is being interviewed on the BBC’s Today programme.
He says the full Michael Garcia report into alleged corruption needs to be published before the election for Blatter’s replacement.He says the full Michael Garcia report into alleged corruption needs to be published before the election for Blatter’s replacement.
Caborn says his view is that the contents of that report would be “more explosive” than the claims that have emerged from Chuck Blazer and Jack Warner in the last few hours.Caborn says his view is that the contents of that report would be “more explosive” than the claims that have emerged from Chuck Blazer and Jack Warner in the last few hours.
He says if the 2018 or 2022 World Cup bids were reopened, many countries – including Australia and the US – would stand ready to host it. England would be in the frame, he adds. But he says it’s more important to see who’s going to be the next Fifa president.He says if the 2018 or 2022 World Cup bids were reopened, many countries – including Australia and the US – would stand ready to host it. England would be in the frame, he adds. But he says it’s more important to see who’s going to be the next Fifa president.
As Jack Warner seemingly prepares to turn on his old boss, Sepp Blatter …As Jack Warner seemingly prepares to turn on his old boss, Sepp Blatter …
Warner to Sepp Blatter: You can't say you're resigning and stay on. He caused my demise. I didn't cause his. #MarabellaWarner to Sepp Blatter: You can't say you're resigning and stay on. He caused my demise. I didn't cause his. #Marabella
the Guardian’s Owen Gibson has this reminder of rather closer times:the Guardian’s Owen Gibson has this reminder of rather closer times:
Let's not forget the links between Jack Warner and Blatter - not least TV rights for $1: http://t.co/DAtYi4qom9Let's not forget the links between Jack Warner and Blatter - not least TV rights for $1: http://t.co/DAtYi4qom9
An interesting note from the unsealing of the court transcripts from Chuck Blazer’s 2013 testimony.An interesting note from the unsealing of the court transcripts from Chuck Blazer’s 2013 testimony.
The judge in the case, Raymond Dearie, referred to Fifa as a “racketeering influenced corrupt organisation”, the same terminology used in cases of organised crime, and only allowed the hearing to proceed after the Brooklyn courtroom had been locked.The judge in the case, Raymond Dearie, referred to Fifa as a “racketeering influenced corrupt organisation”, the same terminology used in cases of organised crime, and only allowed the hearing to proceed after the Brooklyn courtroom had been locked.
The transcript also show that Dearie was initially stumped by the Fifa acronym, telling the court: “I don’t know how you pronounce it.”The transcript also show that Dearie was initially stumped by the Fifa acronym, telling the court: “I don’t know how you pronounce it.”
Writing in the Telegraph today, Emma Barnett says the Blatter regime is one of the reasons why many women feel excluded from football:Writing in the Telegraph today, Emma Barnett says the Blatter regime is one of the reasons why many women feel excluded from football:
Mr Blatter is the man who unrepentantly advised professional female players to don ‘tighter shorts’ to make their game more enticing to male viewers. And the same guy who thinks it normal to hire dancing female models to accompany him on stage at official Fifa presentations.Mr Blatter is the man who unrepentantly advised professional female players to don ‘tighter shorts’ to make their game more enticing to male viewers. And the same guy who thinks it normal to hire dancing female models to accompany him on stage at official Fifa presentations.
He is also the man who has presided over an organisation where only three women have made it onto Fifa’s 27-strong executive committee, albeit at lowlier positions than their male colleagues.He is also the man who has presided over an organisation where only three women have made it onto Fifa’s 27-strong executive committee, albeit at lowlier positions than their male colleagues.
And yet, the tide is turning, as more fans seek out the women’s game – without the promise of hot pants. Hurrah! The women’s World Cup, in particular, is uncorrupted by huge sums of cash and perversely high expectations.And yet, the tide is turning, as more fans seek out the women’s game – without the promise of hot pants. Hurrah! The women’s World Cup, in particular, is uncorrupted by huge sums of cash and perversely high expectations.
So when the players kick off this Saturday, it’s a chance for football as a whole to turn over a new leaf. That’s the hope I am focusing on.So when the players kick off this Saturday, it’s a chance for football as a whole to turn over a new leaf. That’s the hope I am focusing on.
The former Fifa chief may be the self-styled ‘godfather of women’s football’ (yes, he did actually say that), but the support the female game is currently enjoying has happened in spite of him, not because of him.The former Fifa chief may be the self-styled ‘godfather of women’s football’ (yes, he did actually say that), but the support the female game is currently enjoying has happened in spite of him, not because of him.
In case you missed it, former England captain David Beckham has joined the chorus of condemnation for Fifa.In case you missed it, former England captain David Beckham has joined the chorus of condemnation for Fifa.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder, who was a major figure in England’s failed bid to host the 2018 World Cup, issued a statement calling for major change at Fifa:The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder, who was a major figure in England’s failed bid to host the 2018 World Cup, issued a statement calling for major change at Fifa:
Some of the things that we now know happened were despicable, unacceptable and awful for the game that we love so much.Some of the things that we now know happened were despicable, unacceptable and awful for the game that we love so much.
Football is not owned by a few individuals at the top, it belongs to the millions of people around the world who love this sport.Football is not owned by a few individuals at the top, it belongs to the millions of people around the world who love this sport.
It is time for Fifa to change and we should all welcome it.It is time for Fifa to change and we should all welcome it.
Not the headline-grabbing quotes, certainly, but a couple of other Warner gems from his TV address and subsequent speech to supporters of his Independent Liberal party.Not the headline-grabbing quotes, certainly, but a couple of other Warner gems from his TV address and subsequent speech to supporters of his Independent Liberal party.
He called himself a “lone, isolated soldier”.He called himself a “lone, isolated soldier”.
Having been briefly held in prison last week before being freed on bail, he called for better jail conditions, saying they were “woeful”.Having been briefly held in prison last week before being freed on bail, he called for better jail conditions, saying they were “woeful”.
And he paraphrased Gandhi – that throughout history, there have been tyrants:And he paraphrased Gandhi – that throughout history, there have been tyrants:
But in the end, they all fall.But in the end, they all fall.
A reminder of the charges that Jack Warner is facing, according to thered notice (wanted person alert) issued by Interpol on Wednesday:A reminder of the charges that Jack Warner is facing, according to thered notice (wanted person alert) issued by Interpol on Wednesday:
Warner denies wrongdoing.Warner denies wrongdoing.
It’s unclear exactly what Warner is threatening to expose with his claim that he will be quiet no more.It’s unclear exactly what Warner is threatening to expose with his claim that he will be quiet no more.
He says he has compiled documents and cheques, that he claims demonstrate “the link between Fifa, its funding and me”, as well as what he alleges are links between Fifa and the United National Congress, one of the parties in Trinidad and Tobago’s ruling coalition, and others relating to the T&T elections of 2010.He says he has compiled documents and cheques, that he claims demonstrate “the link between Fifa, its funding and me”, as well as what he alleges are links between Fifa and the United National Congress, one of the parties in Trinidad and Tobago’s ruling coalition, and others relating to the T&T elections of 2010.
Warner says the documents “also deal with my knowledge of certain transactions at Fifa, including – but not limited to – its president, Mr Sepp Blatter”. Blatter has not responded to the claim.Warner says the documents “also deal with my knowledge of certain transactions at Fifa, including – but not limited to – its president, Mr Sepp Blatter”. Blatter has not responded to the claim.
Warner says he has given all these documents and cheques to a third party, “beyond my own reach”, and will give permission for this third party to release the documents.Warner says he has given all these documents and cheques to a third party, “beyond my own reach”, and will give permission for this third party to release the documents.
He says his lawyers are talking to law enforcement officials, presumably including those in the US who are seeking his extradition.He says his lawyers are talking to law enforcement officials, presumably including those in the US who are seeking his extradition.
Warner insisted he did not take a bribe from South African football authorities to back their 2010 World Cup bid. (You can read more about that allegation against Warner here.)Warner insisted he did not take a bribe from South African football authorities to back their 2010 World Cup bid. (You can read more about that allegation against Warner here.)
It’s worth bearing in mind that Warner has not produced any evidence to back his claims, promising only that “all” documents would be released at some unspecified point. Plus he thinks The Onion is a real news site.It’s worth bearing in mind that Warner has not produced any evidence to back his claims, promising only that “all” documents would be released at some unspecified point. Plus he thinks The Onion is a real news site.
Australia could host the World Cup “tomorrow”, according to a state sports minister – but it would settle for hosting the 2022 tournament, which it originally bid for, should Qatar be stripped of the job.Australia could host the World Cup “tomorrow”, according to a state sports minister – but it would settle for hosting the 2022 tournament, which it originally bid for, should Qatar be stripped of the job.
Victoria’s sports minister, John Eren, said Melbourne was ready to step up:Victoria’s sports minister, John Eren, said Melbourne was ready to step up:
We are certainly ready. Forget about seven years’ preparation, we could host the World Cup here tomorrow.We are certainly ready. Forget about seven years’ preparation, we could host the World Cup here tomorrow.
All we need to do is dig up the [AFL] goal posts and we’re ready to go. We’ve already paid our dues, we’ve already put in a bid.All we need to do is dig up the [AFL] goal posts and we’re ready to go. We’ve already paid our dues, we’ve already put in a bid.
All we’re saying is, now it’s a level playing field.All we’re saying is, now it’s a level playing field.
Eren did concede that some work would be needed to ready infrastructure and transport systems.Eren did concede that some work would be needed to ready infrastructure and transport systems.
Potential venues would include the MCG, Etihad Stadium, AAMI Park and Geelong’s Simonds stadium.Potential venues would include the MCG, Etihad Stadium, AAMI Park and Geelong’s Simonds stadium.
On Wednesday, Fifa whistleblower Chuck Blazer’s 2013 court testimony was unsealed. Here’s a round-up of some key quotes and admissions:On Wednesday, Fifa whistleblower Chuck Blazer’s 2013 court testimony was unsealed. Here’s a round-up of some key quotes and admissions:
I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes in conjunction with the selection of South Africa as the host nation for the 2010 World Cup …I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes in conjunction with the selection of South Africa as the host nation for the 2010 World Cup …
I agreed with other persons in or around 1992 to facilitate the acceptance of a bribe in conjunction with the selection of the host nation for the 1998 World Cup …I agreed with other persons in or around 1992 to facilitate the acceptance of a bribe in conjunction with the selection of the host nation for the 1998 World Cup …
I and others agreed that I or a co-conspirator would commit at least two acts of racketeering activity …I and others agreed that I or a co-conspirator would commit at least two acts of racketeering activity …
Beginning in, or around, 2004 and continuing to 2011, I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes in conjunction with the selection of South Africa as the host nation for the 2010 World Cup …Beginning in, or around, 2004 and continuing to 2011, I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes in conjunction with the selection of South Africa as the host nation for the 2010 World Cup …
In and around 1993 and continuing through the early 2000s I and others agreed to accept bribes and kickbacks in conjunction with the broadcast and other rights to the 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2003 Gold Cups …In and around 1993 and continuing through the early 2000s I and others agreed to accept bribes and kickbacks in conjunction with the broadcast and other rights to the 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2003 Gold Cups …
During my association with Fifa and Concacaf, among other things, I and others agreed that I or a co-conspirator would commit at least two acts of racketeering activity.During my association with Fifa and Concacaf, among other things, I and others agreed that I or a co-conspirator would commit at least two acts of racketeering activity.
I knew my actions were wrong at the time.I knew my actions were wrong at the time.
Warner’s broadcast – a political ad that he paid to air on several Trinidad TV channels on Wednesday night – was entitled The Gloves Are Off.Warner’s broadcast – a political ad that he paid to air on several Trinidad TV channels on Wednesday night – was entitled The Gloves Are Off.
The full eight-minute version is rambling, with the sound quality often quite poor.The full eight-minute version is rambling, with the sound quality often quite poor.
But my colleague Fred McConnell has put together this shorter clip with the key claims – including Warner’s assertion that he fears for his life and his statement that he has distributed documents to “different and respected hands” that will prove a link between soccer’s governing body and the 2010 national elections in his native Trinidad and Tobago.But my colleague Fred McConnell has put together this shorter clip with the key claims – including Warner’s assertion that he fears for his life and his statement that he has distributed documents to “different and respected hands” that will prove a link between soccer’s governing body and the 2010 national elections in his native Trinidad and Tobago.
Jack Warner’s comments came hot on the heels of the unveiling in the US of court testimony – sealed since 2013 – that shows former Fifa executive turned whistleblower Chuck Blazer admitting to a number of bribes and kickbacks – and implicating other members (not so far named) of the Fifa executive committee:Jack Warner’s comments came hot on the heels of the unveiling in the US of court testimony – sealed since 2013 – that shows former Fifa executive turned whistleblower Chuck Blazer admitting to a number of bribes and kickbacks – and implicating other members (not so far named) of the Fifa executive committee:
Blazer, a 70-year-old soccer chief, made the admission in testimony to a New York judge in 2013, which was made public on Wednesday.Blazer, a 70-year-old soccer chief, made the admission in testimony to a New York judge in 2013, which was made public on Wednesday.
“I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes in conjunction with the selection of South Africa as the host nation for the 2010 World Cup,” Blazer told the judge in a secret court session in November 2013.“I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes in conjunction with the selection of South Africa as the host nation for the 2010 World Cup,” Blazer told the judge in a secret court session in November 2013.
Blazer, whose decision to assist the FBI appears to have been a critical breakthrough for the investigation now engulfing world football’s governing body, has been assisting federal agents since.Blazer, whose decision to assist the FBI appears to have been a critical breakthrough for the investigation now engulfing world football’s governing body, has been assisting federal agents since.
Formally entering a guilty plea during the hearing at New York’s eastern district court, Blazer told the judge his involvement in the acceptance bribes in connection with the South Africa bid began “in or around 2004 and continuing through 2011”.Formally entering a guilty plea during the hearing at New York’s eastern district court, Blazer told the judge his involvement in the acceptance bribes in connection with the South Africa bid began “in or around 2004 and continuing through 2011”.
In a nod to a wider top-level conspiracy at Fifa, Blazer added: “My actions described above had common participants and results.”In a nod to a wider top-level conspiracy at Fifa, Blazer added: “My actions described above had common participants and results.”
Related: Fifa whistleblower Chuck Blazer: I took bribes over 1998 and 2010 World CupsRelated: Fifa whistleblower Chuck Blazer: I took bribes over 1998 and 2010 World Cups
Paul FarrellPaul Farrell
My colleague Paul Farrell has more on Jack Warner’s dramatic claims:My colleague Paul Farrell has more on Jack Warner’s dramatic claims:
The former Fifa vice-president Jack Warner has made an extraordinary television appearance in which he says he fears for his life and claims he will prove a link between soccer’s governing body and the national elections in his native Trinidad and Tobago.The former Fifa vice-president Jack Warner has made an extraordinary television appearance in which he says he fears for his life and claims he will prove a link between soccer’s governing body and the national elections in his native Trinidad and Tobago.
Warner is the subject of an Interpol red notice, was arrested and held in jail overnight in Trinidad last Wednesday, but was later released on bail.Warner is the subject of an Interpol red notice, was arrested and held in jail overnight in Trinidad last Wednesday, but was later released on bail.
He initially denied any wrongdoing, and said at the time he was “afforded no due process”.He initially denied any wrongdoing, and said at the time he was “afforded no due process”.
In a televised broadcast in Trinidad on Wednesday night, Warner claimed he had documentation that could prove a link between key Fifa officials and the 2010 Trinidad election.In a televised broadcast in Trinidad on Wednesday night, Warner claimed he had documentation that could prove a link between key Fifa officials and the 2010 Trinidad election.
“I will no longer keep secrets for them,” he said.“I will no longer keep secrets for them,” he said.
Warner makes allegations that the documents “also deal with my knowledge of transactions at Fifa, including – but not limited to – its president, Mr Sepp Blatter”.Warner makes allegations that the documents “also deal with my knowledge of transactions at Fifa, including – but not limited to – its president, Mr Sepp Blatter”.
Blatter has not yet responded to Warner’s allegationsBlatter has not yet responded to Warner’s allegations
Warner also apologised for not disclosing his knowledge of the alleged links previously. “Not even death will stop the avalanche that is coming” he said. “The die is cast. There can be no turning back. Let the chips fall where they fall.”Warner also apologised for not disclosing his knowledge of the alleged links previously. “Not even death will stop the avalanche that is coming” he said. “The die is cast. There can be no turning back. Let the chips fall where they fall.”
Warner is yet to produce any documentation to support his allegations.Warner is yet to produce any documentation to support his allegations.
He also said in the televised address, which was a paid political advertisement, that “I reasonably actually fear for my life.”He also said in the televised address, which was a paid political advertisement, that “I reasonably actually fear for my life.”
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
Welcome to our latest Fifa live blog, as the fallout from the investigation into alleged corruption at football’s highest level continues.Welcome to our latest Fifa live blog, as the fallout from the investigation into alleged corruption at football’s highest level continues.
Here’s a round-up of what we’ve learned over the last few hours:Here’s a round-up of what we’ve learned over the last few hours:
I have kept quiet, fear that this day might come. I will do so no more.I have kept quiet, fear that this day might come. I will do so no more.
There can be no reversal of the course of action which I have now embarked upon.There can be no reversal of the course of action which I have now embarked upon.
Blatter knows why he fell. And if anyone else knows, I do.Blatter knows why he fell. And if anyone else knows, I do.
I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes in conjunction with the selection of South Africa as the host nation for the 2010 World Cup.I and others on the Fifa executive committee agreed to accept bribes in conjunction with the selection of South Africa as the host nation for the 2010 World Cup.
Stick with us for the latest, inevitable Fifa developments; I’ll also post updates @Claire_Phipps.Stick with us for the latest, inevitable Fifa developments; I’ll also post updates @Claire_Phipps.