Doctors: Havelange's health improves significantly

SAO PAULO (AP) -- Brazilian doctors say former FIFA President Joao Havelange is getting "significantly" better and is not listed in serious condition anymore.

The Hospital Samaritano says the 95-year-old Havelange is "lucid" and the right ankle infection that has kept the former IOC member hospitalized for more than a month and a half is now under control.

Doctor Joao Mansur Filho said in a statement issued by the hospital Friday that Havelange's health "improved significantly," although the Brazilian official remains in a semi-intensive care unit and there is no timetable for his release.

Havelange led FIFA from 1974-98 and remains an honorary president. He resigned from the IOC late last year citing undisclosed health reasons, avoiding a possible suspension for allegedly taking kickbacks from former FIFA marketing partner ISL.

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