Luis Figo: 'This is one of FIFA's darkest days'

Former Portugal star Luis Figo believes that FIFA will be left permanently scarred by the ongoing corruption scandal surrounding a number of its key figures.

Seven officials have been arrested over allegations of racketeering, money laundering and wire fraud, which has left Friday's presidential election in major doubt.

Figo withdrew from the running to replace top boss Sepp Blatter last week, citing the poor reputation of football's world governing body as his reason for stepping aside.

In a short statement released via his personal Facebook page, the 42-year-old has now further condemned those at the top.

"People who love football such as I do, will remember May 27 as one of the worst days of the history of FIFA," he said. "I reiterate what I said last week - what is happening next Friday in Zurich it's not an election.

"Now, there's much more people who agree with me. To give consent to this plebiscite is a mistake."

Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein of Jordan remains the only challenger to stop Blatter winning a fifth term as FIFA president in Friday's election.