Sepp Blatter Re-Elected FIFA President

(ATR) Sepp Blatter is re-elected as head of world football's governing body,winning 186 of the 203 votes cast at the FIFA Congress in Zurich.

Blatter, first elected in 1998, was unopposed in the election and will serve a final four-year term. He has promised to step down in 2015.

The 75-year-old Swiss received a standing ovation from the 208 member football federations present at the congress.

Of the 203 votes, Blatter needed 50 percent plus one (102). With 186 votes, it means a total of 17 federations abstained.

"I thank you for your trust and confidence from the bottom of my heart," Blatter said in his acceptance speech.

"Together we will have four years provided the Lord gives me life and energy."

"Our pyramid is intact, the foundation is strong and together we have four years to continue on our path and do our job. 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.

He added: "Today something marvellous happened. I'm deeply moved and honoured. It's a challenge, a new one for me, and I accept it."

Earlier Wednesday, Blatter survived an English FA proposal to congress to postpone the presidential election in the wake of the corruption scandals engulfing his organisation.

He was the sole candidate following the withdrawal on Sunday of Qatari Mohamed Bin Hammam following allegations he had paid cash bungs to amid allegations that he bribed Caribbean Football Union members.

For complete coverage from Zurich, visit World Football Insider.

Written by Mark Bisson.