FIFA chief Blatter vows life bans for match-fixers

PACHUCA, Mexico (AFP) - FIFA president Sepp Blatter has vowed a life ban for any players, coaches or referees implicated in match fixing or irregular betting.

"The solution we have is to suspend all these people for life, whether they be players, coaches or referees," said Blatter, speaking as the under-17 World Cup came to a close here on Sunday.

FIFA security head Chris Eaton has this week been investigating a possible fixed match in El Salvador, one of Mexico's central American neighbours.
"It's very delicate and very worrying for FIFA, the various reports we've received and continue to receive on both illegal betting and fixed matches," Blatter said.
"We have to act strongly," he said, adding that the problems were global.