In the wake of FIFA President Sepp Blatter's resignation announcement, Sunil Gulati, president of the U.S. Soccer Federation and a member of FIFA's Executive Committee, released the following statement:
"The announcement today by President Blatter represents an exceptional and immediate opportunity for positive change within FIFA. I commend him for making a decision that puts FIFA and the sport we love above all other interests. This is the first of many steps towards real and meaningful reform within FIFA. Today is an occasion for optimism and belief for everyone who shares a passion for our game."
Gulati was one of the soccer officials who nominated Prince Ali bin Al-Hussein to stand against Blatter in last week's FIFA presidential election, and publicly backed the Jordanian candidate, who conceded after a 133-73 defeat in the first round of voting.
Blatter, 79, announced his intentions to step down from his post in a hastily called news conference at the organization’s headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, on Tuesday, following indictments and arrests made by US and Swiss authorities last week targeting high-ranking world soccer and FIFA officials. He will remain in his current post until his successor is elected.
Domenico Scala, the Independent Chairman of FIFA’s Audit and Compliance Committee, indicated that an election would be held sometime between December 2015 and March 2016, in accordance with the organization’s bylaws.
“We are at an important moment for the game, a moment that we must not squander," said Alfredo Hawit, who only last week took over as new CONCACAF president. "CONCACAF stands ready to assist in the process of rebuilding FIFA in a way that strengthens the game for many years to come.”
The Canadian Soccer Association also echoed Gulati's statement: "Canada Soccer welcomes the news today regarding FIFA President Blatter’s decision and the opportunity that is now in front of the football world for fundamental change to its structure and governance. As we have unequivocally stated, we are focused on any and all efforts to ensure transparency and accountability for our sport and will support the transition and necessary steps to ensure these core values are of the highest priority."
