Jerome Champagne has launched his campaign to dethrone FIFA president Sepp Blatter with the backing of Brazilian legend Pele.
Champagne is a former football journalist who has worked for FIFA before. He was one of Blatter's closest allies when he was FIFA Deputy Secretary General between 2002 and 2005.
The former diplomat is now eying the top job itself ahead of the presidential elections in June 2015.
He is the first candidate to throw his hat into the ring, although both Blatter and UEFA president Michel Platini are also expected to stand, The CNN reports.
Pele said he cannot stay away from a debate which is so important for the future of football, and thus, he supports Jerome Champagne and his vision.
