Pick of the reactions to Sepp Blatter’s shock announcement on Tuesday he would step down as president of world football’s governing body FIFA after 17 years in charge:
“It was a difficult decision, a brave decision, and the right decision.”
— UEFA president Michel Platini, who called on members of his federation to vote against Blatter in last Friday’s presidential vote.
“We highly respect this decision of President Blatter to step down and to initiate the necessary reforms – and to make way for a new leadership of FIFA to drive these changes.”
— International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach,
“Why didn’t he step down last week? Clearly there’s a smoking gun of some sort. He’s not been honourable in years. Now he’s gone – let’s celebrate.”
— English Football Association (FA) president Greg Dyke, one of Blatter’s sternest critics.
“Platini remains my favoured candidate. I always said that.”
— French Federation president Noel Le Graet, who ignored Platini’s advice and voted for Blatter in the FIFA election.
“For me his (Blatter) resignation came as a complete surprise.”
— Russian Sports Minister and FIFA executive committee member Vitaly Mutko.
“It’s a tragedy why he didn’t spare us all, and himself, by doing this sooner.”
— German Football Association president Wolfsgang Niersbach, a FIFA executive committee member.
“Prince Ali is ready to take over as FIFA head at any moment, should they ask him.”
— Sala Sabra vice-president of the Jordanian Football Federation, signalling that Prince Ali bin al Hussein will run in the next FIFA election.
“The best news for ages! Joseph Blatter stepping down as FIFA president represents the beginning of a new era for world football.”
Brazilian football great and politician Romario.
“Change is finally coming. I said on Friday that the day would come sooner or later. Here it is!” — Portuguese football legend Luis Figo, who withdrew from the presidential race to allow Prince Ali be the sole anti-Blatter candidate.
“Very good news.” Dutch federation president Michael van Praag, who also stepped aside to allow Prince Ali a free run at Blatter
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