Havelange in serious condition in hospital

Former FIFA president Joao Havelange is seriously ill in a Rio de Janeiro hospital after suffering heart problems while recovering from an ankle infection.

Havelange was treated last month at the Samaritano Hospital when his condition was described as “serious”, and fresh concern for his health has emerged after he was admitted to the hospital’s coronary care unit yesterday.

The 95-year-old Brazilian resigned in December as a member of the International Olympic Committee, citing health concerns at a time when he faced possible suspension over allegations of payments received from former FIFA marketing partner ISL.

He served as FIFA president from 1974 to 1998, when he was replaced by Sepp Blatter.

His latest health setback was confirmed in a statement signed by the hospital’s cardiologist Joao Mansur Filho.

The statement released to Brazilian news outlets said: “During the night [Sunday night] the patient had a cardiac failure and respiratory and had to return to the coronary care unit.

“At present, the patient needs ventilation support (respiratory and cardiac), and is making use of medication to control blood pressure.”