Topics: FIFA, Joseph Blatter, Ali Ben Al-Hussein, Michael Van Praag, Luis Figo
The former Portuguese superstar revealed key points for his presidential campaign, including an expansion of the FIFA World Cup among other ideas.

Luis Figo's campaign to become FIFA's ruler started off with a bang today, after presenting some interesting ideas for the benefit of football. During the launch of his Presidential manifesto at Wembley Stadium, the former Portuguese footballer revealed four key points to address if he wins the election.

"I trust that most want change and are ready for change, a democratic change, a change so that we achieve transparency and a change that goes back to football itself," Figo stated before revealing his manifesto.

While long-time ruler Joseph Blatter remains as the top-runner to prevail as FIFA's President, Figo is apparently backed by UEFA officers who want the Swiss exec out of the job. During his campaign launch, the former Barcelona and Real Madrid player will look to establish revolutionary ideas, aided by "old school" rules that he would like to re-instate.

Expanding the World Cup to 48 teams

One of the most controversial ideas Figo presented in his manifesto was that of expanding the World Cup "to 40 or 48 teams". Figo's World Cup would be held in two separate continents, before the knockout stages were held in a host country, just like it's done these days. If the proposed expansion took place, Figo's intent would be to involve non-European nations.

Technology and the introduction of 'sin bins'

The former Portuguese player, a strong supporter of the goal-line technology already in use, would be open to a "real and structured debate" for the use of new technologies to aid game officials. Furthermore, Figo wants to introduce "sin bins", just like the ones in hockey, so that a player who shows unsportsmanlike conduct towards the referees could be temporarily banned from play.

Bringing back the "old offside rule"

Figo's football approach would include bringing back the old definition of the offside rule, where a player was flagged whether directly involved in play or not. Furthermore, the Portuguese would propose the end of the "triple punishment" rule of penalty, red card and suspension when a player commits a professional foul inside the box.

Distribution of FIFAs revenue to develop 'grassroots football'

The former player is aware that most criticism surrounding FIFA involves the distribution of its revenues. To end this, Figo proposed to give away half of FIFAs earnings to those federations that need it the most, so they can use that money to develop their youngsters. Right now, FIFAs revenue tallies 7 billion dollars.

Luis Figo's manifesto, in his own words

On expanding the World Cup: "I believe we should consider proposals to expand the competition to a 40 or even 48 team World Cup. Both these options are feasible with an extra three to four days of tournament play."

Why should federations support his project: “Thanks to my football experience I am lucky to be an independent man. I don’t owe anything to anybody and this means I can serve as president in the interests of football. Football runs through my veins, and I am ready to bring real changes to Fifa.”

About his desire to develop grassroots football: I was very lucky and fortunate to have the chance to play and get training from a young age. But this opportunity does not exist for most children in the world, so addressing this crucial issue would be a key focus under my presidency. "It is why I propose creating school football projects in every member association country. And it is why I want to see at least 50 per cent of FIFA's solidarity funds spent on grassroots football pitches, balls and kits.

Reactions to Figo's proposals

Several fans and experts have reacted to Figo's revolutionary approach on football, since he's seen as the best option to succeed Joseph Blatter as FIFA's President. Some agree with him, other don't like some of his ideas that much. Read some of them below.