Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein to run for FIFA president

Prince Ali appeared at the Soccerex conference in Manchester earlier this week, where he hinted he may run -- and launched another attack on UEFA president Michel Platini, claiming the Frenchman was a "protege" of Blatter.


He said: "Ten months ago, I was the only person who dared to challenge Mr Blatter for the presidency of FIFA. I ran because I believe that FIFA needs change. And I had the courage to fight for change when others were afraid.
"I conceded that election. Not because I was not the best candidate, but because others were using me to make room for themselves. They didn't have the guts to run, but I did. Ever since President Blatter promised his resignation just a few days later, they have been scrambling to secure the job for themselves.
"I didn't stand for election the first time to make way for others. This election should be about football and not personal ambition. I will not be a pawn for others. I cannot leave the field that I have cleared, only to allow a flawed system to continue.''

Ali added: "Since the last election, I have thought long and hard about how to reform FIFA. It will be a difficult task. We must overcome deep-seated corruption and political deal-making.
"But I was not brought up to walk away in the face of a tough fight. Nor have I been brought up to walk away from what I believe in or take the easy way out.
"This is about right and wrong. It's time for us to stand up for what we believe in.''
The prince also sent a message to FIFA's sponsors promising their association would "no longer be a source of controversy and shame''.
He added: "We are grateful for your patience. Please see us through the last mile of our journey to make you proud.''
He also promised to dedicate himself to growing the women's game, supporting referees, holding discussions on introducing new technologies, and increasing the fight against match-fixing.