MILAN (AP) -- Silvio Berlusoni says he won't run for a fourth term as premier in spring elections.
Berlusconi has until now been coy about his intentions. But the three-time former premier posted a statement on his movement's website Wednesday under the headline: `'I won't run for premier."
He indicated, however, that he won't entirely step aside.
Employing a soccer metaphor, the 76-year-old billionaire businessman who also owns AC Milan said: `'I will remain alongside younger players who need to play and score goals," noting `'I still have good muscles and a bit of a head."
He recommended that his People of Liberty movement hold primaries on Dec. 16 to decide a candidate for premier.
Berlusconi's personal legacy has been tarnished by sex and corruption scandals.