Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness decides not to appeal conviction

Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has announced that he will step down from his post as he has decided not to appeal a conviction for tax evasion.

The businessman has been sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison after he was found guilty of failing to pay €27.5m to the tax authorities.

In a statement on Bayern's official website, Hoeness said: "After discussions with my family, I have decided to accept the judgment of the District Court of Munich in my tax matter. I told my lawyers not to appeal. This is because I believe in decency and personal responsibility.

"Tax evasion was the biggest mistake of my life. I will now face the consequences of this mistake. Above that I will vacate my role as president of Bayern Munich and chairman of the supervisory board."

The 62-year-old has played a pivotal role in turning the German club, who won the Champions League last season, into one of the most successful clubs in Europe.