FIFA congress backs Blatter over foreign quotas

By Ossian Shine

SYDNEY (Reuters) - FIFA president Sepp Blatter cleared the first major hurdle with his controversial "6+5 rule" on Friday when the congress of world soccer's governing body voted overwhelmingly in favour of him pursuing the plan.

Blatter remained firmly on a collision course with European lawmakers after the Sydney congress voted 155-5 in favour of the objectives of the rule which would limit the number of foreign players who can start a match to five. There were 40 abstentions.

The congress passed the resolution, asking Blatter together with European counterpart Michel Platini to "continue to explore for Europe... all possible means within the limits of the law to ensure that these crucial sporting objectives be achieved".

The European Union says the "6+5" rule would contravene its free movement of workers rules.

Blatter, however, was bullish.

"It was an overwhelming majority, overwhelming support," he smiled in a news conference. "I am sure it will be done... I am very confident about it.

THORNY ISSUE

"They are saying it is illegal. For what, for whom and when? And if there is a law... you know a law can be amended or altered."