Chung Mong-joon officially withdraws Fifa presidency bid

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The South Korean hopeful had announced his intention to appeal a six-year ban. EFE.

The South Korean hopeful had announced his intention to appeal a six-year ban from football ahead of the elections, but just hours before the deadline he stepped down

Chung Mong-joon has officially withdrawn his candidacy to become the next president of Fifa.

The South Korean was hoping to replace Sepp Blatter despite being handed a six-year ban from all football-related activity over a number of infringements during the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

On October 9, Chung confirmed that he would launch an appeal in regard to the sanctions with the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

However, with the deadline for the submissions for presidency set for Monday, the 64-year-old has officially withdrawn.

"Because of the Ethics Committee's unjust sanctions, I will have to miss the October 26 deadline to file my candidacy," Chung said in a statement.

"Even though I can no longer stand for FIFA President, there is much left for me to do. I will continue to work with all those who love football to bring about legitimate changes from within Fifa."