Michel Platini Targets PSG Over Financial Fair Play Concerns
Michel Platini, the president of UEFA, has expressed strong concerns over the financial practices of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), calling into question whether the club is adhering to the principles of Financial Fair Play (FFP).
In an interview, Platini made it clear that UEFA is closely monitoring club finances, and that sanctions may be imposed on those found in breach of the rules. “The first decisions will be announced in early May. If you’re expecting blood and tears, you’ll be disappointed,” he said, adding that while tough decisions will be made, exclusions from European competitions are unlikely. Platini emphasized that while the cumulative losses of European clubs have decreased from €1.7 billion to €1 billion this year, some clubs are still “on the edge.”
Although Platini did not specifically single out any club, his remarks clearly focused on PSG, which has come under scrutiny for its financial model. The French club, owned by Qatar Sports Investments, has signed a controversial image contract with the Qatari tourist office (QTA), which generates around €200 million annually—approximately 50% of PSG’s total budget.
“PSG’s economic model is unique and atypical,” Platini acknowledged. “This image contract with QTA, signed in 2012, is innovative, to say the least. But is it valid? Is the amount of the contract correct? These are questions that experts must decide.”
While Platini refrained from making any direct accusations, his tone suggested a strong degree of skepticism about the legitimacy of the deal. Despite this, he clarified that his aim was not to target PSG but to ensure that clubs respect the financial regulations that govern European football. “I don’t want to talk specifically about a club,” Platini stated. “Let’s just say that PSG’s financial model is unconventional.”
Platini also shared his recent conversations with PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi and CEO Jean-Claude Blanc, who defended their club’s financial strategy. “They simply chose a path to finance their investments and achieve profitability,” Platini explained. However, he remained uncertain about whether PSG’s practices fully comply with FFP regulations. “Does PSG respect the rules of financial fair play? Not sure… Not sure at all, in fact.”
As UEFA continues its scrutiny of club finances, the future of PSG’s financial dealings will remain under the spotlight, with potential repercussions for the club if any violations are confirmed.
