Sports

FIFA says corruption crisis hinders search for new sponsors

FIFA says corruption crisis hinders search for new sponsors

By ASSOCIATED PRESS

The logo of soccer's international governing body FIFA is seen on its headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, May 27, 2015. REUTERS/Ruben Sprich

ST. PETERSBURG: FIFA says the corruption crisis is hindering the search for new sponsors. FIFA sponsors Coca-Cola, McDonald's and Visa have questioned the organization's handling of the allegations of wrongdoing that led to soccer officials being indicted in the United States. Ahead of Saturday's qualifying draw for the 2018 World Cup, FIFA has not replaced Emirates airline and Sony since they opted not to renew deals after the 2014 tournament. FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke says 'the current situation doesn't help to finalize any new agreements — that is a fact. And I'm sure until the (presidential) election on Feb. 26 there will not be any major announcements.' He also says the governing body will gather concerned sponsors at a summit next month.