Acquired a second time in the affair of the 2 million Swiss francs, Michel Platini regains full freedom of action. This decision relaunches a crucial question: the former number 10 of the Blues, ruled out of the race for the presidency of FIFA in 2015, again claimed to the supreme position of world football?
The conditions to come to FIFA
To be a candidate, you must have carried out a football -related activity for at least two of the previous five years. You must also be supported by five FIFA member associations, with an application filing four months before the elective congress. To date, Platini seems eligible, even if he has not officially exercised as a function since his departure from UEFA.
Is age a brake?
At 69, Platini is not offside. Unlike certain national federations which impose a limit at 70 years, FIFA does not provide for an age barrier. It would therefore be technically able to compete in the next elections planned in 2027, if it gathered the necessary supports.
Will Platini get out of his retirement?
Does Platini really want to come back?
Asked after his acquittal, Platini posted his relief but not his intentions.
“Persecution is over. Now I have to think about it. What I'm going to do tonight? Go to the restaurant “he said, suggesting that a return to the arena is not his immediate priority. He also mentioned the idea of prosecution against those he deems responsible for his past exclusion.
A still hypothetical candidacy
If Michel Platini is now legally free, a possible candidacy will depend on his personal will and his ability to rebuild a network of alliances within world football. In 2027, he will be 72 years old. Nothing prevents him from coming back, except perhaps the bitter taste of an already fought fight.
