Zürich, 15 June 2001 - As reported in the media, the regional court of Berlin has issued an interim injunction against the FIFA President, Joseph S. Blatter. FIFA has not yet received the injunction, which, under German law, means that it has not yet come into effect.

The interim injunction had been requested by Suzanne Dassler, the daughter of the former adidas chairman Horst Dassler, as a result of an interview that the FIFA President held with the "Berliner Zeitung", which was subsequently published on 29 May. Asked when he first heard about the foundation in question, Mr Blatter replied, "A week ago. I looked into the matter immediately. I was told the foundation was created by the Dassler family, and not ISL. I do not know the purpose of the foundation". On 1 June, Ms Dassler's legal representative formally advised the FIFA President to refrain from making further comments on this matter. Mr Blatter was in Asia at the time. On 4 June, Mr Blatter's lawyer replied to this letter, but no more was heard from Ms Dassler's lawyer before the injunction was issued.

FIFA will only consider legal action if the injunction comes into effect.

Enquiries to be addressed to:
FIFA Media Office
Tel: +41-1/254 9800
Fax: +41-1/384 9696

FIFA Communications Division
Zürich, 15 June 2001