Grzegorz Lato Courtesy of PZPN

Grzegorz Lato has resigned from his post as head of the Polish Football Association (PZPN). The announcement came on Tuesday just seven hours before the midnight deadline for prospective candidates for the PZPN presidential elections to acquire enough signatures to enter the race.

“I have today taken the decision to withdraw my candidacy for the post of president of the PZPN,” Mr Lato said in a written statement.

“Everyone wants change, so they should be pleased with my decision. I believe that I must do this for the good of the PZPN and Polish football,” he added.

Mr Lato, who during an outstanding playing career became Poland's all-time leading goal scorer, is believed to have made the shock decision to quit after it became clear he would be unable to muster the 15 signatures needed to enter the October 26 elections.

The former Stal Mielec player had come under serious criticism during his four years at the helm of Poland's football association following allegations of corruption and Poland's poor performance on the pitch at Euro 2012.

But assessing his own record as PZPN president Mr Lato said, “Association management is not easy, so I wish the new president success. During my term, I attempted to bring in a string of reforms and changes. I am convinced they will bear fruit in the future.”

“I have left the PZPN in great financial shape, and I hope that my hard work for football won't go to waste,” he added.

Former Juventus midfielder Zbigniew Boniek has now been installed as the favorite to become new PZPN president, after he received the 15 signatures needed to enter the elections.

Poland A.M.