WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) that has been shaken by a number of high-profile corruption cases will benefit from new leadership, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said in a press briefing on Wednesday.
“It is apparent from recent news reports they [FIFA] would benefit from some new leadership,” Earnest said commenting on resignation of FIFA President Joseph Blatter.
On May 27, seven FIFA officials were arrested in Zurich, Switzerland on a US warrant of federal corruption charges, including fraud, racketeering and money laundering in marketing and broadcasting deals over the last 20 years.
“This is an opportunity for that organization to try to improve their public image and to make sure that the actions of that organization are consistent with their mission,” Earnest said.
The press secretary underscored, however, decisions with regards to FIFA leadership have to be made within the organization.
Blatter, currently is neither indicted by the US Justice Department nor identified as a target in the investigation. He will remain in office until a new FIFA presidential election is held.
