By Andrew Warshaw
October 9 – Michel Platini has re-iterated his innocence in the light of being suspended by FIFA’s ethics committee as his top brass at UEFA closed ranks and said they were firmly behind their beleaguered president.
With his FIFA presidential hopes in severe jeopardy, Platini has described the evidence against him as “farcical” and is determined to fight his way out of his current predicament.
“I reject all of the allegations that have been made against me, which are based on mere semblances and are astonishingly vague,” said Platini. “Indeed, the wording of those allegations merely states that a breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics ‘seems to have been committed’ and that a decision on the substance of the matter cannot be taken immediately.
“Despite the farcical nature of these events, I refuse to believe that this is a political decision taken in haste in order to taint a lifelong devotee of the game or crush my candidacy for the FIFA presidency.
“I want everyone to know my state of mind: more than a sense of injustice or a desire for revenge, I am driven by a profound feeling of staunch defiance. I am more determined than ever to defend myself before the relevant judicial bodies.”
“I want to reiterate in the strongest possible terms that I will devote myself to ensuring that my good faith prevails. I have received numerous messages of support today from UEFA’s member associations and the other confederations encouraging me to continue my work serving football’s interests. Nothing will make me give up on that commitment.”
UEFA will hold an emergency meeting of its executive committee and of all its member nations next Thursday to discuss the suspension of their hugely popular leader. Unlike Fifa, they have not appointed an interim president since Platini is expected to appeal.
Wolfgang Niersbach, president of the German FA and a prominent member of the executive committees of both UEFA and FIFA, described the suspension as “a heavy setback” for Platini but was certain the Frenchman could still win next February’s ballot. “Two weeks ago everything was clear. He had more than 100 supporters, including the DFB. But this is a heavy setback for him. Now we must consider the new situation,” said Niersbach.
Platini moved quickly to submit his five nominations before he was suspended, making sure he had the necessary backing were he to win any appeal, but it may not be enough to save him. He certainly will not be able to attend the Euro 2016 draw in Paris on December 12 unless his ban is somehow overturned by then.
Nevertheless, UEFA are standing by their man. “The UEFA Executive Committee expressed its full confidence in UEFA President, Michel Platini, and stands fully behind him,” a statement said.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1731750362labto1731750362ofdlr1731750362owedi1731750362sni@w1731750362ahsra1731750362w.wer1731750362dna1731750362