Former UEFA president Michel Platini is taking legal action against FIFA president Gianni Infantino, accusing him and two former officials of conspiring to destroy his chances of leading world football. The complaint, filed in Paris, alleges malicious prosecution and influence peddling linked to a scandal that ended Platini's career.
Background of the Dispute
Platini was the frontrunner to replace Sepp Blatter as FIFA president in 2015 until a scandal erupted over a two million Swiss francs payment from Blatter to Platini. Both received bans from FIFA's ethics committee, but Swiss courts later exonerated them. Platini's legal team claims the case was a deliberate campaign to block his succession.
Legal Proceedings
According to reports, Platini's representatives have confirmed initiating proceedings in Paris against Infantino, former FIFA legal director Marco Villiger, and ex-audit chair Domenico Scala. The complaint focuses on accusations of malicious prosecution and influence peddling.
Infantino, who served as UEFA general secretary under Platini, won the 2016 election to replace Blatter and has remained in power since. The timing of the legal action, just days before the World Cup begins in the US, Mexico, and Canada, is deeply embarrassing for FIFA.
World Cup Controversies
The news adds to a series of incidents overshadowing the tournament. Iran threatened to withdraw after US airstrikes killed their leader, with Italy proposed as a replacement. Infantino insisted Iran would participate, while US President Donald Trump expressed safety concerns but eventually gave approval. Additionally, Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the US, and Iranian supporters had their tickets revoked.
Platini, now 70, and Blatter, 90, were acquitted of fraud and forgery by a Swiss federal criminal appeals court in September 2024. The Express has contacted FIFA for comment but received no response as of yet.
