FIFA President Sepp Blatter resigns

Sepp Blatter has resigned as FIFA president in a stunning capitulation to critics as a US investigation reportedly draws closer to ensnaring the most powerful man in world sports.

The Swiss official, who has ruled soccer's governing body for 17 years, said on Tuesday that he would remain in charge until a special congress can choose a new leader, and he vowed to pursue strong reforms in the meantime.

Blatter noted that he had just won re-election from FIFA members on Friday, but said: "I do not feel that I have a mandate from the entire world of football."