FIFA confirms seven candidates for February's presidential election

FIFA has officially confirmed the seven candidates who will contest for the presidency in next year's election on February 26.

The world governing body will appoint a new leader when Sepp Blatter, who is being investigated in a widespread corruption probe, steps down from his position following a 17-year term.

Prince Ali, Musa Bility, Jerome Champagne, Gianni Infantino, Michel Platini, Sheikh Salman and Tokyo Sexwale have been announced as candidates.

Former Trinidad and Tobago international David Nakhid confirmed his intention to run for the presidency on Monday, but he failed to receive the required backing from five member associations.

UEFA president Platini remains in the running, but FIFA will only consider the Frenchman's bid if his current suspension is lifted before the election takes place.

A statement from FIFA read: "FIFA's member associations have proposed, in due time and form, seven candidates for the presidential election to take place at the Extraordinary FIFA Congress in Zurich on February 26, 2016.

"Given that Michel Platini is currently provisionally banned from taking part in any football-related activity, his candidature will not be processed by the Ad-hoc Electoral Committee as long as such ban is valid and in force.

"Should such a ban be lifted or expire before the FIFA presidential election, the Ad-hoc Electoral Committee would decide, depending on the respective exact point in time, on how to proceed with the candidature concerned."

Blatter is alleged to have given Platini a "disloyal" £1.3m payment in 2011.