CONCACAF and CONMEBOL respond to arrests in FIFA scandal

CONCACAF and CONMEBOL have vowed to co-operate fully with authorities following the indictment of several officials as part of investigations into possible corruption in world football.

Current CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb and former CONMEBOL president Eugenio Figueredo were among seven people arrested in Zurich on Wednesday, while former CONCACAF chief Jack Warner is part of the wider group totalling nine FIFA officials indicted by the United States Department of Justice.

Responding to the events that have thrown the world game into crisis, both continental associations released statements vowing to support the investigations.

The CONCACAF statement read: “The Confederation of North, Central America and the Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) is deeply concerned by today’s developments, in the arrest of several international football officials including those belonging to our confederation.

“The Confederation will continue to cooperate with the authorities to its fullest capacity.

“At present, CONCACAF is not in a position to comment further on the specific allegations, which have been referred to the appropriate legal counsel through the pertinent channels.

“CONCACAF continues to operate in the ordinary course of business, hosting all of its upcoming tournaments in a successful and timely manner, including the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup.”

CONMEBOL’s statement added: “Due to the grave recent events in the city of Zurich, involving individuals, representatives and members of FIFA, CONMEBOL and CONCACAF, the Executive Committee and delegates of the component Associations of CONMEBOL in plenary session has unanimously resolved to inform the public as follows:

“One: We repudiate all acts of corruption, and unreservedly support the investigations initiated toward FIFA, CONMEBOL, CONCACAF, and other organizations regarding alleged wrongdoing, and will agree to collaborate openly and emphatically with such investigations.

“Two: In this regard, we will respect any decision at any given trial, whether the declaration of innocence or guilt is handed down to the people involved.

“Three: Support the truth, ethics and transparency of the activities by FIFA, CONMEBOL and Associations members.”