Real legend Casillas runs for president of Spanish FF

Former Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas has confirmed he is to run for the presidency of the Spanish Football Federation.

Casillas, who won 167 caps, is to stand against current president Luis Rubiales in the election later this year. Should Casillas be elected for the fouryear term through to 2024, it would signal the end of his glorious playing career that spans 20 years.

The 38-year-old has not played since suffering a heart attack during a training session with current club Porto in May last year.

Via a series of tweets, and running with the hashtag #Ikercasillas2020, he announced his intention to take on Rubiales, who has been in charge since 2018.

“Yes, I will run for the presidency of the @RFEF when the elections are called,” said Casillas. “Together we will put our Federation at the level of the best football in the world.

“I have informed the president of my club, FC Porto, of this decision, to whom I can only express my deepest gratitude.

“We are working with the utmost respect and determination in our candidacy. More than 23,000 voters are waiting for us in a fair and transparent election. 139 assembly members will decide.

“Thank you all for the love I have received. Your support and your strength encourage me. Go for it!”

After making his debut for Real Madrid in 1999, Casillas went on to make more than 700 appearances before joining Porto in 2015.

As captain, he led Spain to victory in the 2010 World Cup and the 2008 and 2012 European Championships.