Russian president Vladimir Putin claims Sepp Blatter is not corrupt

Despite several reports of controversies surrounding the world’s football governing body, Russian president Vladimir Putin is convinced FIFA’s head Sepp Blatter has nothing to do with the alleged corruption inside the organisation. Blatter, along with current and former FIFA officials, has been scrutinised over accusations of bribery for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup bid.

Putin, who had been with Blatter at the weekend in St. Petersburg for the preliminary draw of the 2018 World Cup, believes that the controversial president of FIFA is not involved in any corruption accusations thrown at the football’s governing body. Russia’s president made the comments in an interview with Swiss broadcaster RTS, according to CNN.

"I believe that people like Mr. Blatter, the heads of major international sports federations, deserve special attention and gratitude from public organizations. If anyone should be awarded Nobel Prizes, it is these people,” Putin said.

Blatter has separated himself from the allegations, saying that he has a “clear conscience.” The 79-year-old football administrator announced in June that he would step down after current and former FIFA officials have been arrested as part of an investigation led by United States and Swiss authorities. The pressure on FIFA features separate corruption investigations, with authorities from Switzerland focusing on the bidding to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

Putin, a former KGB spy, launched criticisms at U.S. authorities’ pursuit of FIFA officials around the globe, saying the investigations conducted by the United States about corruption makes him wonder if it is just a continuation of the struggle for the World Cups in 2018 and 2022 as reported by BBC. The Russian leader also added there are international norms to consider in fighting corruption, pointing out that the probe into corruption at FIFA by the United States is just another proof of how U.S. disrespects other nations as noted by Fortune.com.

Meanwhile, Blatter has praised Russia’s preparation for the next World Cup. Blatter claimed he has complete trust in Russia’s ability to host the tournament.

“Russia will be a fantastic host. It will be a wonderful moment for Russia, the rest of the world and for football,” Blatter said.

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