Platini out of race for presidency

Plans to spend most of his time on CAS appeal

Suspended UEFA chief Michel Platini on Thursday withdrew from the race to become FIFA president, telling L'Equipe he will concentrate on clearing his name instead.

"I will not present myself for the presidency of FIFA. I am withdrawing my candidature. I no longer have the time nor the means to go to the voters, to meet people, to fight against the other candidates," said Platini in reference to the Jan 26 deadline for nominations to succeed Sepp Blatter.