MOSCOW: Russian Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko is set to become president of the Russian Football Union (RFU) after his only rival for the position, vice-speaker of the Russian State Duma Igor Lebedev, withdrew from next month’s vote on Friday. “Today we met with Mutko and we offered each other our mutual support,” Lebedev said in an interview with the TASS news agency. On Monday, the RFU registered both candidates to take part in the election, which is scheduled to take place on September 2. Mutko was previously in charge of the RFU from 2005-09, while Lebedev has never worked in a sporting capacity. In 2012, he sought election for the RFU presidency but was only able to muster nine votes. The RFU has been looking for a new president since May 31.

Gomez joins Besiktas

ISTANBUL: German forward Mario Gomez has joined Besiktas on loan after two unhappy, injury-plagued seasons at Fiorentina, the clubs said on Thursday. Gomez arrived at Fiorentina with a reputation as one of Europe’s most deadly poachers, but managed only 29 league appearances and seven goals for the Serie A side. Fiore’s new coach Paulo Sousa had backed the 30-year-old but Gomez clearly felt he needed a fresh start and joined the Turkish club who have an option to make the deal permanent. Besiktas said that a good season could help him win a place in Germany’s squad for Euro 2016.

Blackpool fined

LONDON: The English FA fined third tier Blackpool 50,000 pounds on Thursday after a crowd invasion forced the abandonment of the match against Huddersfield Town in May. The club were also severely warned, subject to any appeal, about their future conduct. The match at Blackpool’s Bloomfield Road was abandoned in the 48th minute, with the score 0-0, and not replayed. Blackpool denied an FA charge of failing to control spectators. The FA said any further pitch incursion leading to the referee suspending play next season would result in Blackpool having to play a home game behind closed doors.