Anonymous ´bomb´ threat received at FIFA Congress

An anonymous threat forced police to step in and search the premises during the FIFA Congress on Friday.

The Congress is being held at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland, and will be the scene for the presidential election between incumbent Sepp Blatter and challenger Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein.

However, rumours of a bomb threat were sparked while delegates were on a lunch break.

Police were required to assess the venue following the receipt of the threat, although clearance was subsequently given for the Congress to continue.

Addressing the situation, FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke said: “An anonymous threat against the FIFA congress was received. FIFA and the local authorities immediately evaluated the situation.

“In consultation with FIFA, the local authority decided to search the premises during the lunch break.

“The premises have been cleared now by the authorities. The Congress can start again.

“Thank you for being patient, thank you for all being here, and we can move on now with the Congress.”

The Congress is taking place against a backdrop of controversy after nine FIFA officials were named among 14 people indicted on corruption charges on Wednesday.