Soccer clubs want Blatter’s support in Olympics

GENEVA (AP)—Europe’s top soccer clubs called on FIFA president Sepp Blatter to support their interests in a dispute with the International Olympic Committee over releasing players for the 2012 London Games.

FIFA and the IOC have struggled to find common ground on player eligibility since a loophole in the rules almost prevented Lionel Messi from leading Argentina to the gold medal in Beijing last year.

The European Club Association, representing 144 clubs from 53 nations, wants Blatter to stand by statements that the London tournament should be an under-21 event.

“We thought it was clearly accepted by FIFA. We expect that Mr. Blatter will honor his commitment,” ECA vice chairman Joan Laporta said Tuesday.

The IOC and president Jacques Rogge support the current rules permitting players aged 23 and under, with exemptions for three “over age” players. FIFA put the restrictions in place, with IOC approval, to protect the supremacy of the World Cup as the sport’s premier competition while still allowing some elite players to take part.

The IOC also wants the Olympic tournament put on FIFA’s international calendar, which would force clubs to release players.

European clubs object because an Olympic tournament scheduled in July-August interrupts their preseason planning and qualifying matches for the lucrative Champions League.

Laporta is the president of Barcelona, which tried to stop its superstar Messi from going to China. Barcelona joined German clubs Schalke and Werder Bremen to defeat FIFA at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but then gave in to pleas to let the players go.

“Fortunately, it was wonderful. They won the gold medal and Messi had a marvelous season,” Laporta said. “It’s very important to have a clear-cut rule and don’t leave the decisions to the clubs. Then we get pressure from the players, the national associations and the fans.” .

The ECA’s views will be provided to a FIFA task force set up by Blatter to recommend new eligibility rules.