By Samindra Kunti in Paris
June 21 – Noël Le Graët is a French businessman and since 2011 has been president of the French Football Federation. His football career has seen him as president of Ligue 1 from 1991 to 2000, and as a vice president of the French federation until stepping up to the top job. In an exclusive interview with Insideworldfootball Le Graët talks of the impact the Euros are having in regenerating French football, about keeping the tournament safe, and gives his support to the changes at the top of the governing bodies.
What is your ambition in terms of the legacy of Euro 2016, both in France and in Europe?
First of all, when it comes to football, the legacy is substantial. Euro 2016 has permitted
the construction or renovation of stadiums, like the ones in Lyon, in Marseille, in Bordeaux, etc. Without the Euro, France would have accrued a serious delay [in football development].
It was strategic for the finances of the professional clubs and the comfort of the spectators. Thanks to the European Championship, the French Football Federation is able to leave a true legacy to amateur football. More than €40 million has been allocated to 15,700 amateur clubs in order to finance equipment (locker rooms, mini-busses, flood-lighting, etc.), training and animation.
We now have 210,000 training license holders but there will surely be a new influx of license holders after the tournament. This was already the case after the 1998 World Cup. But this Euro also provides a real boost to the French economy in terms of employment and foreign currency. More than 2.5 million visitors are expected.
When it comes to Europe, then this first edition with 24 teams is a moment of celebration. It is positive in every aspect.
Will the security measures detract from the tournament?
In the context of the terrorist threat, security was a priority. After long months of planning, everything has been planned and foreseen by the French authorities who have deployed extraordinary means. All services are mobilized 24/24. Zero risk does not exist but everything has been put in place so as to assure normal proceedings so that all football fans can benefit from the festivities. In spite of this, there have been incidents and unacceptable violence. They should not occur again. UEFA has taken a strong stand and additional security measures were taken so that it does not happen again.
Is the imbalance of PSG’s dominance a problem for French football?
PSG is doing a very good job. Nowadays it is dominant but other clubs may rival it again. I simply wish that more French players would develop at PSG.
Can you seen other clubs being in a position to challenge PSG?
Lyon is doing a very good job and Marseille has a very great potential.
Will you welcome Platini to the tournament as a guest?
Of course, but he has decided not to attend the tournament and I can understand his choice and I respect it.
Les Bleus seem to be on the verge of having a crop of good young players coming through again – what is the reason behind this?
You are right, seeing Coman, Martial, Pogba, Kante, … and others that are still coming after them. It proves that our youth education remains one of the best in the world. Our players evolve in the great European clubs and our national youth teams achieve very good results in all of the international competitions. French players are an excellent export. A lot of foreign clubs recruit from our clubs.
Is it sustainable?
Yes. It goes in cycles. All countries are familiar with this issue but the seriousness and effectiveness of our youth formation assures our permanence at the highest level.
UEFA does not have a president. Is this a problem for the organization?
No, UEFA’s services are functioning normally but it’s certain that this situation cannot last very long. The elections will take place in September.
Do you see a clear leader emerging amongst the candidates for president?
Not a single candidate has come forward yet. We have to wait…
What are the biggest challenges for UEFA from a French perspective?
UEFA must continue to safeguard an equilibrium between the biggest federations and the smaller ones.
Do you believe FIFA is now in a better place with all the controversy surrounding the new president?
It would be very disappointing if it is not the case! I have total confidence in Gianni Infantino.
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