Japan's Tashima to run for FIFA presidency - NHKニュース

Japan Football Association Honorary President Tashima Kohzo says he plans to run in the FIFA presidential election scheduled for March next year.

Tashima, who is 68, announced his bid to become the next FIFA president at a news conference in Tokyo on Thursday.

The FIFA council member explained why he decided to run. He referred to FIFA's suspension of a ban on a US team member who received a red card at this year's World Cup as well as its handling of the Iranian national team.

He said he wants to convey to the world the sincerity, soundness and integrity that Japanese soccer has developed over the years. He added that FIFA is being tested for its self-correcting capacity.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced his intention to stand for reelection. He reportedly has close ties with US President Donald Trump.

Japan Football Association President Miyamoto Tsuneyasu also spoke to reporters. He said the JFA had decided to back Tashima's bid at a board meeting on Thursday.