Havelange continues to respond well to treatment

SAO PAULO (AP) - Former FIFA President Joao Havelange remains in stable condition and is responding well to treatment for an infected right ankle.

Samaritano Hospital said in a statement Thursday the 95-year-old Brazilian is in a semi-intensive unit and receiving antibiotics. He has had three procedures to drain the ankle since he was hospitalized March 18 for septic arthritis, a serious bacterial infection that affects joints.

Havelange ran soccer's governing body from 1974-98. He resigned from the International Olympic Committee late last year, citing undisclosed health reasons. He avoided a possible suspension for allegedly taking kickbacks from former FIFA marketing partner ISL.

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