They wanted a delay amid corruption allegations within the sport's world governing body, but were only supported by 17 member associations.

Blatter was re-elected after receiving 186 of the 203 votes cast to remain in charge until 2015.

"I thank you for your trust and confidence from the bottom of my heart," said Blatter, who was applauded back into the auditorium by the rest of Fifa congress after his unchallenged victory in Zurich.

"Our pyramid is intact, the base, the foundation is strong and together we have four years to continue on our path and do our job.

"We will put Fifa's ship back on the right course in clear, transparent waters. We need some time to do it, but we shall do it.

"Today something marvellous happened and I'd simply like to tell you I'm deeply moved and honoured. It's a challenge, a new one for me, and I accept it."

Later in the day, in his closing statements, Blatter said the congress's resolutions had given him "the instruments needed to restart the credibility of Fifa".

He also spoke of the need to make amends for all the negative publicity the organisation had generated.