Brazil soccer chief resigns

Rio de Janeiro: President of the Brazilian Confederation of Soccer (CBF) Ricardo Teixeira has stepped down after 23 years at the helm following allegations of corruption.

Monday`s announcement comes just four days after Teixeira took a leave of absence with alleged health problems. Although he bases his departure on health issues, the truth is that mounting pressure over corruption allegations has left him weary, reports Xinhua. The allegations include use of public money to finance a friendly between Brazil and Portugal in 2008. The match cost Brazilians nearly USD 4 million. Checks found by the Civil Police led to the discovery that nearly half of the money used for the match was deposited in his daughter`s bank account. He is also accused of using the national team`s travels abroad to purchase merchandise and illegally bring it back home without inspection. IANS