FIFA's Sepp Blatter doesn't find prank a laughing matter

THE JOKE was on outgoing FIFA president Sepp Blatter, but he didn't find it a bit funny.

Blatter, who resigned as the soccer organization's leader last month amid a corruption scandal, had called a news conference yesterday to announce that an election for his successor would be held in February.

Before he could begin, however, British comedian Simon Brodkin walked up to Blatter and placed a large pile of funny money on the table. We know it was fake money because if it had been real, Blatter would have pocketed it.

In a video that has gone viral, Brodkin introduced himself as a delegate from North Korea and said the money was a bribe to secure the 2026 World Cup.

Blatter called for security and, as two men approached, Brodkin threw another stack of "bills" into the air creating a hilarious scene in which "money" rained down on Blatter.

Brodkin has a history of prankish behavior. Picture a classier version of Stuttering John with an English accent.

Last month, Brodkin walked on stage carrying a mic during Kanye West's performance at the Glastonbury Festival in England.

Last year, he tried to pass himself off as a member of the English soccer team as it was about to board a plane headed for Miami. Although he was dressed like the other players - gray suit, stripped tie - he was discovered before he boarded.

In another development, Blatter announced yesterday he will not travel to Malaysia next week for an International Olympic Committee meeting where the host city of the 2022 Winter Games will be chosen.

Which is a good thing because you never know where, or when, Brodkin will show up.