In a recent interview with the Spanish sports daily As, Platini emphatically stated, “I categorically affirm that President Sarkozy did not ask me to vote for Qatar to be the host of the 2022 World Cup, neither before, nor during, nor after this meeting.” He then recounted the events leading up to the FIFA Executive Committee’s decision to award the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the 2022 edition to Qatar. Platini revealed that he received a phone call from President Sarkozy, met the Emir of Qatar and the Prime Minister of the emirate at the Elysée, and had dinner with them. Despite these interactions, Platini insisted that Sarkozy never asked him to support Qatar as the host country for the 2022 World Cup.
Platini’s statements come in response to previous remarks by FIFA president Joseph Blatter on November 22, where Blatter claimed that “France and Germany, the countries which command Europe, (had) made pressure to organize this tournament in Qatar.” Platini had already denied such allegations on October 20 during a television appearance.
Despite his defense, some observers find Platini’s statements to be revealing. While maintaining his innocence, Platini’s comment, “I could understand that Sarkozy was interested in seeing Qatar host the World Cup. But he did not ask me,” may suggest a nuanced relationship with the former French president. The situation raises questions about the dynamics between football officials and political figures, leaving room for interpretation and speculation.
