We know that FIFA are well and truly spooked, what with rats coming out of the woodwork and Sepp jumping ship, but suspending the 2026 World Cup bidding process is a pretty big step.

The bidding process was due to begin shortly with a final vote then taking place in 2017 but Jerome Valcke, FIFA’s secretary general, said today during his first public comments that the organisation would hold off on starting the procedure for now.

Valcke also took the chance to profess his innocence in the corruption allegations surrounding our 2010 bid. Sky News reports:

It was not FIFA’s money … it was request from the official South African authorities and South African FA, and as long as it was in line with rules, we do it.

You’ve decided that after Blatter I’m the head to be cut? Fine … But I’m not responsible.

If you say so Jerome, although trust is something you FIFA fat cats will struggle to earn back any time soon.

Also towing the line was the Russian Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko, saying Russia’s successful 2018 bid had all been above board and they were confident that Putin and his cronies would still play host to the tournament.

Start saving up now countries who wish to host the 2026 World Cup, that spare change could come in handy at a later stage.

[source:sky]