FIFA elects first female general secretary

MEXICO CITY - Senegalese Fatma Samoura has been elected as the International Federation of Association Football's (FIFA) first female general secretary, announced the sporting organization's President, Gianni Infantino on Friday in Mexico City.

During the 66th FIFA Congress, Infantino said Samoura was the best person for the job to help lead the soccer entity forward after being plagued by corruption cases since 2015.

"She is an excellent person. She is used to managing organizations, large budgets, human resources, staff and finances and she will surely bring something new to FIFA," said the FIFA president before the Council.

Selecting Samoura is also a commitment to diversity and gender equality, added Infantino.

"I believe in gender equality and the need to include diversity. I have also told you that I prefer to act rather than just talk. After having interviewed several people (for the position) I decided to propose Fatma Samoura's nomination to the Council," said Infantino amid applause.

Infantino highlighted that now the maximum responsibility for FIFA's everyday administration is in the hands of a diplomat with 21 years experience at the United Nations.