Michel Platini has criticised his eight-year ban from FIFA a “real farce,” with UEFA confirming that they are “extremely disappointed” by the decision from world football’s governing body.
Platini, UEFA president since 2007, and Sepp Blatter were each banned for eight years by the FIFA ethics committee on Monday for conflict of interest in a two million Swiss franc (£1.35 million) payment deal that is also the subject of a criminal investigation in Switzerland.
Blatter’s FIFA career is ending in disgrace after more than 17 years as president and 40 years in total with the governing body.
Platini’s bid to succeed his former mentor in the Feb. 26 election is now likely over, though he intends to appeal at the FIFA appeals committee and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Platini said in a statement to AFP: “”Alongside a referral to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, I’m determined to refer, when the time comes, to the civil courts to obtain compensation for all the damage that I’ve suffered for too many weeks as a result of this procedure.
“I will go to the very end in this process.”
UEFA released a statement on Monday which read: “UEFA has taken note of the decision of the FIFA ethics committee to suspend Michel Platini for eight years from all football-related activities.
“Naturally UEFA is extremely disappointed with this decision, which nevertheless is subject to appeal.
“Once again, UEFA supports Michel Platini’s right to a due process and the opportunity to clear his name.”
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