Do Not Want Spain To Be Divided, Iker Casillas Resigns From The Candidacy Of The RFEF President

Iker Casillas (Twitter @ikercasillas)

JAKARTA - The legend of Spain and Real Madrid, Iker Casillas resigned from the nomination for the next president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). San Iker's reason is that Spanish football needs unity in the midst of the yet tame COVID-19.

Casillas confirmed his intention to run in February. Now, after resigning, Luis Rubiales is expected to be re-elected without an opponent in August.

Casillas, who won Euro 2008 and 2012 as well as the 2010 World Cup with Spain, explained in a Twitter post his decision. He said most of the reasons were due to the social, economic and health situation suffered by Spain.

"I think it's time to unite, not be divided," tweeted Casillas. See the full below:

COMUNICADO OFICIAL pic.twitter.com/ag9CKjFDr0

- Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) June 15, 2020

The former Madrid keeper, who made 167 senior appearances for his country, insists the decision to withdraw does not mean closed doors for the future. He said he could choose to run for positions that were further forward.

"I want an electoral process that is fair, transparent and truly participatory, looking for the best for Spanish football," he said.

"I hope that in the next election it can happen with me or with other candidates."

Spain has been one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic, with more than 290,000 cases and 27,136 people dead.

Casillas won five La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues with Madrid before leaving his boyhood club for Porto in 2015.

The 39-year-old suffered a heart attack in May 2019 and has since taken up more roles in the club's management chair. Last February Casillas announced his retirement from professional football.