Zurich, Mar 25 (UNI) Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and French football legend Michel Platini have once again been acquitted of fraud and misappropriation charges by a Swiss court, marking the conclusion of one of the biggest corruption scandals in football history.

The case revolved around a payment of 2 million Swiss francs made by FIFA to Platini in 2011. The transaction, which was disclosed in 2015, triggered a chain of events that led to the downfall of both Blatter and Platini from their influential positions in world football governance.

Blatter, who served as FIFA president from 1998 to 2015, had authorised the payment to Platini, citing an outstanding salary claim from the latter’s tenure as an advisor between 1998 and 2002. At that time, Platini was also the President of UEFA and widely regarded as the heir apparent to FIFA’s leadership. However, the payment raised concerns over financial mismanagement, leading to an internal FIFA investigation and subsequent bans imposed on both individuals.

Swiss criminal prosecutors pursued the case, alleging fraud and financial misconduct.

Reacting to the verdict, a relieved Platini told reporters, "The persecution of FIFA and some Swiss federal prosecutors for 10 years is now over. It is now totally over. And for me, today, my honour has returned and I am very happy." However, after a detailed trial, the court ruled in favour of Blatter and Platini, dismissing all charges due to a lack of evidence proving criminal intent.

The verdict marks the second time the duo has been cleared of wrongdoing, following a similar acquittal in 2022. Their legal battles had effectively ended Platini’s chances of ascending to the FIFA presidency, paving the way for Gianni Infantino to assume leadership of the global football body.

While the ruling brings an end to the legal proceedings, the scandal has left an indelible mark on FIFA’s history, highlighting long-standing concerns over governance and financial transparency within the organisation. UNI BDN SSP