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Luis Figo yet to confirm withdrawal from FIFA presidential election

Luis Figo
Image: Luis Figo, one of the challengers to Sepp Blatter for the FIFA presidency

Luis Figo has yet to confirm whether he will withdraw from the FIFA presidential election, following claims he will pull out of the race with fellow challenger Michael van Praag.

Sky Sports News HQ understands at least one presidential candidate is expected to withdraw from the election before the vote on May 29.

Figo’s representatives have yet to comment on whether the former FIFA World Player of the Year has decided to quit before the vote, but stressed he does not intend to travel to the Netherlands for a reported news conference with van Praag.

“We reiterate what we said on the first day.” a source who works for Figo’s campaign told Sky Sports News HQ. “Luis is an independent candidate and he will keep being independent. He will not travel to Holland, and participate in any press conference, contrary to what the rumours say.” 

Van Praag, president of the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB), held strategy talks with Figo and Prince of Ali of Jordan last week.

“We can confirm there have been discussions between candidates regarding the possibility to join forces.” Van Praag’s spokesperson told Sky Sports News HQ on Wednesday morning. “It is too soon to talk about which candidate might have the biggest chance. Our shared, collective goal is to achieve change within FIFA – it is good that there is a growing international coalition striving for that goal. That is our main focus now.”

It is understood van Praag and Figo have become increasingly frustrated with the election process.

Van Praag’s nomination was supported by the Scottish Football Association, and Prince Ali’s nomination was endorsed by the Football Association.

The FA board will discuss whether to vote for Prince Ali at a routine meeting on Thursday at Wembley stadium.

Blatter is widely expected to receive the required 105 votes at next week’s presidential election and secure a fifth term as FIFA president.

 

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