FIFA’s lack of transparency all too evident in latest scandal 30 May 2011 That’s the rub. The crackdown on corruption in FIFA can’t be taken seriously until FIFA allows someone else to do it. Damaseb spoke of bringing in some top legal minds from around the world as the investigation continues; he praised the fact that Robert Torres, who sat on the disciplinary committee, is the Chief Supreme Court Justice of Guam in his day job. But, Damaseb stressed that, no matter what legal opinions it gets, FIFA will always control the investigation. Just as FIFA forbids political and/or judicial interference in the matters of national associations, it doesn’t want to be judged by, well, a judge.
Blatter claims there is no crisis at FIFA 30 May 2011 “We are not in a crisis,” said Blatter in a press conference Monday from FIFA headquarters. “We are having some difficulties.” Blatter spent the better part of 45 minutes ducking and dodging questions from journalists. When two-part questions were asked, he insisted on answering only one. When questions were asked about FIFA’s reputation, he spoke of gambling in the game. When asked about reforming FIFA, he spoke of zero tolerance for abuse of officials on the field.
Coup at CONCACAF? Blazer tags Warner, Bin Hammam with bribery allegations 25 May 2011 Less than a month away from the Gold Cup, it looks as if a civil war is brewing within CONCACAF.
FIFA’s letter to The 11 on the Alberta debate 15 Apr 2011 FIFA, in response to a query by The 11, has stated its policies on government interference into soccer. The letter is published, unedited, in full.
FIFA’s letter is a troubling development for Canadians 15 Apr 2011 Being a great country is FAR more important than being a good FIFA member. Maybe it’s time for us to set an example for other countries to follow. FIFA can’t decide Saturday to suspend the Canadian Soccer Association. A suspension of a program is a process that usually takes months to complete. Board meetings have to be held. Reports have to be prepared.
Canada delivers 2015 Women’s World Cup bid book to FIFA 15 Feb 2011 A Canadian Soccer Association delegation has delivered the bid book for the 2015 Women's World Cup to FIFA headquarters in Zurich. The delegation, which included federal Minister of State (Sport) Gary Lunn, Canadian Soccer Association President Dominic Maestracci, Vice-President Victor Montagliani and General Secretary Peter Montopoli, met with FIFA officials Tuesday, including President Sepp Blatter.
Blatter’s missives likely mean nothing to MLS 5 Jan 2011 But, if past history is an indication, MLS and other North American leagues need not worry about anything Blatter has to say about restricting domestic leagues.
