Story highlights Blatter may have resigned from FIFA, but he's still in control

Doidge: Changes to the rules suggests he's trying to neuter his successor

Could Blatter score himself an honorary post?

Mark Doidge is a senior research fellow in Sociology of Sport at University of Brighton. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author. CNN is showcasing the work of The Conversation, a collaboration between journalists and academics to provide news analysis and commentary. The content is produced solely by The Conversation.

(CNN) And so Sepp Blatter has defied all expectations and announced his intention to step aside from the presidency of FIFA after 17 years at the helm. Despite numerous scandals afflicting the organization he ran, he won four successive elections. Finally, it seems that the long arm of American law has finally reached close enough to FIFA's heart to force its leader to step down.

FIFA has been part of Blatter's life for 40 years . He was headhunted by Horst Dassler, the CEO of German sportswear firm Adidas, and learned his trade at Adidas' headquarters in Landersheim. He then became a technical director in 1975 before assuming the role of Secretary General in 1981. He finally ousted his mentor, João Havelange, in 1998, to become president.

Significantly, despite every news organization stating that he had resigned, he did not use the word in his brief press conference. The masterful politician remained in control until the end, and left us not entirely certain if it is indeed the end.

The key passage in Blatter's announcement stated: "I have decided to lay down my mandate at an extraordinary elective Congress. I will continue to exercise my functions as FIFA President until that election."

Until we hear differently -- and this is a fluid situation -- he is still at FIFA. More importantly, he is setting the agenda.

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