Football: Blatter resignation is just first step to restore trust: EU
(BRUSSELS) - The EU said Wednesday the resignation of world football boss Sepp Blatter was just "one step in a long process" to reform FIFA and restore trust in football's governing body.
Blatter, 79, resigned Tuesday in a stunning capitulation to exultant critics as a US investigation reportedly draws closer to ensnaring the most powerful man in world sport.
"The latest developments... represent one step in a long process that now has to follow to restore trust and establish a solid system of good governance at FIFA," European Commissioner for Sport Tibor Navracsics said in reaction to Blatter's resignation.
He said the European Commission, the executive of the 28-nation European Union, respected the right of sports federations to run their own affairs.
"But after so many missed opportunities and the complete loss of trust in FIFA, I believe we should support fundamental change and ensure that solid solutions are put in place," he said in a statement.
The Hungarian added: "I am now beginning to reflect on how the European Commission, and action at EU level more broadly, can play a role in this".
The commission will work closely with sports organisations and member states to "strengthen sport's place in society and fight the big threat to its integrity," he added.