This article was automatically translated from HIBAPRESS, the Arabic version:
Hibapress
The appeal trial against the former president of FIFA, Sepp Blatter, and the former UEFA boss, Michel Platini, began Muttenz, Switzerland, almost three years after the acquittal of the two men at first instance on Monday.
Blatter is accused in particular of scam by the public prosecutor of Switzerland (MPC) for having paid 2 million francs to the former French international.
Michel Platini will attend the entire trial, said his lawyer, Dominic Nellen, noting that the former football star resolutely rejects the accusations and challenges any illegal act.
Mr. Blatter, who will celebrate his 89th birthday in a week, will also be present at the trial, according to his lawyer, Lorenz Erni.
In July 2022, the Bellinzone Federal Criminal Tribunal released the two men of the counts of swindle, unfair management and false in the titles. The Swiss public prosecutor used this verdict.
According to the MPC, the two accused would have deceived FIFA by indicating that the Federation owed 2 million francs to Michel Platini for consultant services. However, this amount would not have served the objectives of FIFA, but would have been granted solely in order to “increase the fortune” of the former Blues player.
The trial is planned over four days and the verdict will be returned on March 25.
