Sepp Blatter has told the BBC he is sorry for causing offence with his controversial comments on racism.
The Fifa president appeared to suggest on Wednesday that racial discrimination could be settled with a handshake.
“It hurts and I am still hurting because I couldn’t envisage such a reaction,” said the 75-year-old Swiss.
“When you have done something which was not totally correct, I can only say I am sorry for all those people affected by my declarations.”
Blatter insisted his “fight against racism and discrimination will go on” and said he would not resign, despite calls for him to quit by numerous British players, managers, administrators and politicians.
“I cannot resign,” he told BBC sports editor David Bond in an exclusive interview. “Why should I?
“When you are faced with a problem you have to face the problem. To leave would be totally unfair and not compatible with my fighting spirit, my character, my energy.”
Blatter admitted his comments had caused a “serious incident” and that he had used “unfortunate words” which he “deeply regretted”. (BBC)
