Blatter has retracted claims that he resigned earlier this month (Picture:Reuters)

Sepp Blatter has sensationally backtracked on what was thought to be the Fifa president’s resignation three weeks ago by admitting he could stay on in the role.

The 79-year-old was thought to have ended his 17-year reign earlier this month after a corruption scandal cast a huge cloud over his presidency.

However, speaking to an audience in Zurich, Blatter has withdrawn his previous statement.

‘I have not resigned,’ said Blatter.


‘I am making my mandate available at an extraordinary congress.

Blatter suggested he could stay on as FIFA president(Picture:Reuters)

Blatter was opening a museum in Zurich and appeared to suggest that he was unwilling to step down by stating that he was ‘not ready for the museum’.



‘Only those who know the past can understand the present and shape the future,’ Blatter added.

‘Or in other words: the ball is round – but only those who come from outer space know the actual dimensions of our sport.

‘For me personally, the museum is a labour of love. But do not get me wrong: I’m not ready for the museum nor for a waxwork yet.’

MORE: Sepp Blatter ‘may seek to stay on as Fifa president’