A large crowd gathered in Abidjan on Saturday to watch Didier Drogba throw his name for the presidency of the Ivory Coast’s football federation.
The 42-year-old former African Player of the Year is one of four candidates in the race to become the country’s new football boss.

But it is not a given that Drogba’s name will be on the ballot paper of the election on 5 September.

In addition to nominations from three of the 14 Ligue 1 clubs and two from clubs in the lower divisions, Drogba must also receive support from interest groups such as coaches, current and former players and referees.

It is not yet clear who will be supported and an election commission must first approve the final candidates before the election can take place.

“Soccer is everyone’s sport. It brings people together. We can see it from all the people who gathered in front of the Ivory Coast’s headquarters today.

“It is no secret that our football is doing badly and that is why my team and I are committed to contributing to the rebirth of the Ivory Coast’s football team,” Drogba told reporters.