Platini arrested in relation to 2022 World Cup bidding process

An investigation into the awarding of the 2022 World Cup tournament has resulted in the arrest of Former UEFA President Michel Platini.

A judicial officer announced that Platini was taken into custody as part of the investigation into the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. The enquiry was opened on the grounds of private corruptions, criminal association, influence peddling and benefiting from influence peddling.

Platini was banned by FIFA in 2015 for financial misconduct with the ban due to expire in October. The six year ban was reduced to four years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

The former footballer’s decision to vote for Qatar as 2022 World Cup hosts has been up for speculation. Attorney Michael Garcia found that Qatar’s conduct may not have met the required FIFA standards, but there was ‘no evidence of any improper activity by the bid team.’

Officials have not yet been authorized to discuss the ongoing investigation whilst Platini’s lawyer and adviser has not answered immediate communications from the media.

For more information on the matter visit AP News here.