Disappointed FFA, US Soccer still want change

Football Federation Australia (FFA) chairman Frank Lowy feels the number of votes secured by Prince Ali bin al-Hussein in the presidential election were reflective of changes wanted at FIFA.

Both FFA and U.S. Soccer expressed disappointment at the result of the election, having vowed to support Prince Ali in the lead-up.

Sepp Blatter was re-elected for a fifth term on Friday, winning the first round of voting 133-73 before Prince Ali withdrew having forced a second round.

In a statement, Lowy said the voting was indicative of the changes needed at the governing body – which was this week rocked by indictments of nine of its officials.

“It is a democracy and Mr Blatter was duly elected,” he said.

“He was very clear in acknowledging that FIFA faced a real challenge to restore its standing and Australia will play its role along with other associations to try to achieve this.

“The vote secured by Prince Ali was not insignificant and reflects a belief within FIFA and the world football community that governance and other reforms need to be implemented as soon as possible.”

U.S. Soccer was also disappointed and called for change, but congratulated Blatter on his re-election.

“While we are disappointed in the result of the election, we will continue to push for meaningful change within FIFA,” the body said in a statement.

“Our goal is for governance of FIFA that is responsible, accountable, transparent and focused solely on the best interests of the game. This is what FIFA needs and deserves, and what the people who love our game around the world demand.

“We congratulate President Blatter and it is our hope he will make reform his number one priority to ensure the integrity of the game and provide a bright future for the sport across the world.”