Michel Platini, UEFA’s president, emphasized the importance of member federations aligning themselves with UEFA’s policies to effectively combat match-fixing, which he described as a significant threat to the essence of football. Platini highlighted the courageous actions of Alina Stetenco, coach of the Moldova women’s under-17 team, who resisted match-fixing and helped dismantle a network involved in manipulation. Stetenco’s refusal to succumb to intimidation and corruption earned her recognition as a role model for integrity in football.
Platini also used the congress as an opportunity to raise concerns about the ownership of players by third parties, labeling it as a potential danger to the sport. This issue was discussed alongside UEFA’s broader efforts to safeguard the integrity and spirit of football.
Tags: Europe, football, match-fixing, Michel Platini, UEFA, sanctions
