Shaikh Salman bin Ibrahim to run for FIFA presidency

Zurich, Oct. 26 (BNA): President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and Vice President of the International Football Federation (FIFA) Shaikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al-Khalifa submitted today an official application to run for FIFA presidency in the elections set to be held at the extraordinary meeting of the federation's General Assembly in Zurich, Switzerland, on February 26. Shaikh Salman said in an official statement that his decision to run for FIFA presidency stems from his keenness to continue serving football with all determination and professionalism while heeding the crucial phase undergone by FIFA and the need to put the federation back on the right track. He stressed that the critical phase undergone by the international federation requires serious work to regain confidence in the major sporting organisation and uphold its image. He underlined the need for concerted efforts to overcome the current phase by promoting the spirit of unity and solidarity which will serve as a bridge into a new era that remedies the shortcomings of the past and draws a roadmap for a brighter future. He also noted that overcoming obstacles requires an experienced, competent and honest leadership capable of winning the confidence of the international football community.