What if RON stood for FIFA President?

Well there we have it. Sepp Blatter has been re-elected unopposed for a 4th term as President of FIFA. He was supported by 186 of the 203 member associations.

Despite widespread anger and despondency at the shambles that is FIFA today, Blatter recieved a huge vote of support from his colleagues who clearly have their heads in the clouds. Only 17 associations abstained from supporting Blatter in the key vote.

It didn't help that he was unopposed for the position after his rival Mohamed Bin Hammam, president of the Asian Football Federation, pulled out after being suspended over bribery allegations.

RON for FIFA President!
In such similar positions, many organisations ensure a proper vote by putting RON (Re-Open Nominations) up as an alternative to the only nominated candidate. Would it have made any difference in this case had FIFA member associations been given the opportunity to formally vote to re-open the process if they weren't happy with Blatter at the helm?

You would've thought that it would make a difference but the sad truth, looking at today's results is that it probably wouldn't have made a difference. The motion put forward by English FA chairman David Bernstein to FIFA's congress to delay the vote and which was supported by the Scottish FA was lost with 172 of 203 voters opting against a delay (the Welsh and Northern Irish associations amongst them) and going straight to a vote. So in that case, there were presumably 14 member associations who wanted a delay in the vote but when that was lost, voted for Blatter anyway! I mean, what the hell is the point in that?! At least 17 of the 31 associations that called for a delay stuck to their guns and refused to endorse Blatter's coronation.

So we have another 4 years of Sepp Blatter. He said on his re-election:

"We will put Fifa's ship back on the right course in clear, transparent waters. We need some time to do it, but we shall do it.

"Today something marvellous happened and I'd simply like to tell you I'm deeply moved and honoured. It's a challenge, a new one for me, and I accept it."

Well if there's a problem , why hasn't he sorted it out since he became FIFA President in 1998? His words are empty and I have no faith in FIFA whatsoever and until 2016 when his term ends, I have little hope of that changing for the better.