Luis Figo has decided to step down from the race to become FIFA's next president. The president of the Dutch FA, Michael van Praag has also decided to move aside and leave it up to either Ali Bin Al-Hussein from Jordan and Sepp Blatter to become the leader of the biggest soccer association in the world moving forward.
This does not mean it is the end for Figo and van Praag to take down Sepp Blatter. Both former candidates
"We can confirm that there have been discussions between the candidates regarding the possibility to join forces," said a close source to the Dutch leader.
Van Praag will announce this Thursday his official resignation from the FIFA race
As the day of the election approaches, Blatter is still the favorite to win the election for a fifth consecutive time. The 79-year-old leader has received the support from all 54 African-member nations. Blatter needs a total of 105 votes to secure his position as the leader of FIFA for one more term.
Figo's spokesman has been denying any rumors of a possible merger. This alliance could be announced on Thursday in the Netherlands. Nothing indicates that the former FIFA Player of the Year award winner will be there.
Figo has not confirmed what position will he take on May 29
"Luis is an independent candidate and he will keep being independent. He will not travel to Holland, contrary to what the rumors say."
Out of the three candidates that were initially challenging Blatter, it was Prince Ali who had gathered the most supporters. Figo was a close third and joining forces could be the best way to bring Blatter down from his position. There are 209 FIFA countries involved in the upcoming elections.
"Our shared, collective goal is to achieve change within FIFA. It is good that there is a growing international coalition striving for that goal."
