FIFA: Jerome Champagne appeals for the support of five federations required by the statutes

"In exactly twelve days on 29/01/2015 at midnight, it will be the time for the filing of nominations and letters of support from five federations as required by the statutes of FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association)," stated Jerome Champagne, candidate for president of the international federation, in a letter to the presidents of the 209 national federations, on 16/01/2015.

"Currently, I do not have those five letters. The feeling is that the final outcome of the election is already played out, and it would be risky (for a federation) to write them. There is also the fear of being singled out or punished. Finally, people without a program (or proposals) expressed an interest (in standing for president), as well adventurers embarking with the support by sports betting companies," said Jerome Champagne ,who solemnly appealed to the presidents of the federations, stressing that "sponsorship (for presidency) is not at all a statement of support, or a commitment to vote."

• The deadline for submission of applications is 01.29.2015, four months before the annual…