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Luis Figo pulls out of FIFA presidential race

Jorge Adorno / REUTERS

Luis Figo's bid to become FIFA's next president is over.

The Portuguese legend announced Thursday that his campaign to end Sepp Blatter's reign is coming to a close after disagreeing with the principles that come with the role, referring to it as a dictatorship in a statement released to the Associated Press.

Figo cited that deceit among the presidents of football federations worldwide had led to his decision to step away, saying that their private opinions regarding the presidential position and the governing body's leaders were essentially the opposite of comments made on public platforms.

"I have seen with my own eyes federation presidents who, after one day comparing FIFA leaders to the devil, then go on stage and compare those same people with Jesus Christ," Figo said in the statement.

He is the second candidate to pull out of the race in the last 24 hours, following Dutch soccer federation president Michael van Praag's decision to end his run.

Van Praag has since put his support behind the only challenger with a chance to dethrone Blatter, Prince Ali Bin Al-Hussein.

The former World Player of the Year did not offer a similar vote of confidence.

UEFA was the only federation of six to oppose Blatter's re-election after putting their support behind the three alternative candidates.

Without getting into details, Figo painted a bleak picture of the campaign trail he discarded.

"I have witnessed consecutive incidents, all over the world, that should shame anyone who desires soccer to be free, clean and democratic," he said.

Figo also called for increased public involvement during the process, suggesting each candidate disclose their proposals before the election.

FIFA will hold the presidential election May 29.

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