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Fifa corruption: England 'ready to host 2022 World Cup' – live Fifa corruption: England 'ready to host 2022 World Cup' – live
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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 Shaun Walker and Alec Luhn in Moscow whether the loss of Blatter could trigger a revote, 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 Shaun Walker and Alec Luhn in Moscow whether the loss of Blatter could trigger a revote, 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.