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.
