The congress was preceded by the arrests in Zürich of several officials associated with FIFA, who were expected to be extradited to the United States to face various corruption charges.

[1][2][3] Two nominees, Sepp Blatter and Prince Ali bin Hussein, received the necessary nominations to be eligible for the FIFA Presidency.

[6][7] The Asian Football Confederation has expressed that it opposes any move to delay the elections and reiterated its support for Blatter for presidency.

"I simply do not see how there will be change for the good of world football while Mr Blatter remains in post" Gill stated.

According to a statement released by General Secretary Jérôme Valcke, "A bomb threat was received, and as a precaution the Swiss authorities searched the premises.