FIFA: Joao Havelange has resigned from IOC

ZURICH - The Associated Press

Former president of the FIFA Joao Havelange of Brazil reacts after receiving a medal from the Paraguayan Olympic Committee during a ceremony in Luque in this January 28, 2009 file photo. REUTERS photo

FIFA says former president Joao Havelange has resigned as a member of the International Olympic Committee.
The Associated Press reported Sunday that the 95-year-old Brazilian official, who was the Olympic body's longest-standing member, had resigned days before he faced possible suspension.
The IOC was preparing to rule on claims he took kickback payments while he was the FIFA president from 1974-98.
FIFA says in a statement to the AP it "has taken note" of Havelange's resignation, and "the fact that the IOC has closed the case accordingly." FIFA says it "cannot speculate on any decisions made by Mr. Havelange" regarding his status as honorary president. The FIFA congress appointed him to the position in 1998.