Sepp Blatter Denies FIFA Corruption, Calls Himself 'Clean' and 'Honest Man'

Outgoing FIFA President Sepp Blatter has described himself as "clean" and "an honest man," insisting there is no corruption within world football's governing body despite allegations to the contrary.

Speaking to BBC Sport's Richard Conway, Blatter sought to defend the organisation after announcing his resignation in May mere days after being re-elected FIFA president:

"

I did it because I wanted to protect FIFA. I can protect myself. I am strong enough. I know what I have done, what I have not done. I have my conscience and I know I'm an honest man. I am clean. I am not a worried man.

The institution is not corrupt. There is no corruption in football, there is corruption with individuals, it is the people.

"

Conway details that two criminal investigations into FIFA are still ongoing, and Blatter's decision to resign from the position came just days after member officials were arrested on suspicion of corruption, racketeering and conspiracy.

Blatter's successor will be chosen on Feb. 26, 2016, with UEFA President Michel Platini the current favourite to take the role. When asked how he felt about the Frenchman succeeding him, Blatter replied: "Why not? Don't ask the president who is elected to make a comment on the race for the presidency. I don't mind, it's the congress who will decide, not me."

Maxim Shipenkov/Associated Press

The Swiss native first joined FIFA as technical director in 1975 before steadily climbing his way through the governing body, assuming its presidency 17 years ago.

It's under Blatter's watch that FIFA's reputation has been immeasurably tarnished after former executive committee member-turned-whistleblower Chuck Blazer helped lift the lid on certain misdeeds, per the Press Association's Martyn Ziegler (via Daily Mail).

Blatter's interview with Conway was aired on Monday, at which point BBC rugby broadcaster Brian Moore shared his view as to how laughable the official's defence was:

It's difficult to believe his claims of being without fault in the body's downward spiral.

Fewer than 200 days remain until a new president is elected, and many will feel a fresh start turns a new page in football's history, but Blatter seems adamant to defend his standing until the bitter end.