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David Ginola campaign for FIFA presidency continues but Mino Raiola pulls out

Ginola
Image: David Ginola: Campaign to be FIFA president continues

David Ginola remains committed to challenging for the FIFA presidency but agent Mino Raiola has withdrawn from the race.

Ginola launched a campaign earlier this month, backed by a bookmaker, to stand against current president Sepp Blatter.

Doubts about the bid began on Thursday afternoon when a statement on the Team Ginola website appeared to bring an end to his campaign hours before the deadline for official submissions at 11pm on Thursday.

It read: "A huge thank you for supporting Team Ginola. The crowdfunding page is now closed. All donations will be returned to those that have pledged.

"The campaign for change goes on."

But Ginola later said on Twitter: "Not giving up, still in the race to reboot football! Will not give up...final nomination results might not be known before 8th February..."

And a statement received by Sky Sports News HQ read: "Team Ginola continue to work towards achieving the five nominations needed and will do so until the deadline."

Former Newcastle and Tottenham midfielder Ginola held a news conference in central London two weeks ago where he outlined his challenge to Blatter.

In order to challenge successfully he first required financial assistance from fans, who were being encouraged to donate online, but that funding page is now closed. Ginola also needs at least five associations to support his nomination.

Agent Raiola, who counts Mario Balotelli amongst his clients, has offered his support to fellow Dutchman Michael van Praag.

"It’s not about me. It’s about securing a good candidate," Raiola is quoted as saying in Algemeen Dagblad. “We now have a good candidate."

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