Source: www.insidethegames.biz
By Andrew Warshaw in Zurich
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge has claimed here today that under-fire FIFA will emerge from their current crisis if they copy the way the IOC reformed itself more than ten years ago.
Rogge was a guest at today's Opening Ceremony of the FIFA Congress in Zurich and chose his words carefully as he made sure he said nothing contentious to add to the war of words engulfing football's world governing body.
He told the audience of FIFA delegates at the cavernous Hallenstadion that he was confident FIFA would emerge stronger from their "ordeal".
The IOC suffered their own bribery scandal over the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics of 2002 and Rogge's short speech was timely to say the least.
"FIFA is now facing allegations and controversies," he said.
"Thirteen years ago we had to face the same ordeal in the Salt Lake City case."
"The IOC ultimately however emerged a stronger organisation - and from within.
"Our past of course calls for humility and I will definitely not point the finger or lecture you.
"I'm sure that FIFA can emerge stronger, and from within."
Turning to the World Cup in Brazil in 2014, Rogge said it was bound to have an impact on the Olympics and Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro two years later.
"New experiences in Brazil can only serve to benefit the Rio Olympics," he said.
"It is imperative FIFA and the IOC build continue to build on our already very strong ties. "
Although FIFA has not always seen eye-to-eye with the IOC over drug abuse sanctions, Rogge was not prepared to ruffle any feathers.
"Our work together in the fight against doping within WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) has been particularly successful," he said.
"More recently we have positive inroads in our collaboration to combat illegal and irregular betting."
Contact the writer of this story at andrew.warshaw@insidethegames.biz