Given the lies that have been spread online in relation to what I said to the female officials during the FIFA Club World Cup final medals ceremony, I would like to issue a clarification.

I used the opportunity to congratulate them for the great job that they performed throughout the competition. This was a landmark for FIFA. The first time that female officials were appointed to, and officiated at a men's senior FIFA competition.

As everyone knows, I am a strong advocate of women’s rights and equal treatment of  every human being. Regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion or physical ability. FIFA’s Statutes explicitly state that FIFA is committed to respecting all internationally recognised human rights, and shall strive to promote the protection of these rights.

Those who have been spreading false rumours should be ashamed of their actions.