Australia says new FIFA chief a reformer, praises his energy

By Associated Press 27 February 2016, 12:00AM

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Football Federation Australia chief Steven Lowy says although Australia didn't vote for Gianni Infantino in the FIFA presidential election, there is reason to celebrate his elevation to head of the world football body.

Infantino defeated Bahraini favorite Sheik Salman and the recipient of Australia's vote, Jordan's Prince Ali, in Friday's election.

Lowy hailed the election of a reformist candidate to replace Sepp Blatter.

Lowy said Saturday "today is really a watershed day for FIFA ... our initial support was for Prince Ali because we felt that he was a serious reform candidate with strong credentials ... (but) we are very pleased that Gianni was elected. We are hugely impressed with his energy, his capability, his experience."

By Associated Press 27 February 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>