Since 2015, FIFA has been embroiled in corruption allegations, resulting in the indictments of top officials such as Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini, both banned for eight years. U.S. and Swiss investigations have revealed extensive misconduct linked to the bidding and financial practices within FIFA. The future of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups is uncertain, with significant implications for global football governance and integrity.
Since the summer of 2015, FIFA, the governing body of football, has faced extensive corruption allegations following the U.S. Department of Justice’s indictment of several top officials. This scandal has significantly impacted prominent figures such as FIFA President Sepp Blatter and UEFA President Michel Platini, who have both received eight-year bans from all football-related activities by FIFA’s ethics committee. Investigations by Swiss authorities into their actions are also ongoing.
The scandal came to light in May 2015, when U.S. authorities raided a luxury hotel in Zurich, arresting seven FIFA executives. Subsequently, 14 other current and former officials were indicted on charges related to corruption, described as “rampant, systemic, and deep-rooted” by the FBI. In December, an additional 16 officials faced charges, including former Brazil football federation chief Ricardo Teixeira, for allegedly being involved in over $200 million in bribes and kickbacks.
The significance of this corruption crisis is immense, as FIFA governs world football and has faced scrutiny regarding the integrity of its operations, especially after selecting Qatar as the 2022 World Cup host. Despite an internal investigation, FIFA released only an executive summary, which led to the resignation of independent investigator Michael Garcia, who was dissatisfied with the result.
Currently, uncertainty surrounds Sepp Blatter’s status as FIFA’s president. Although he remains the titular leader, he has been suspended and is not actively managing the organization. This situation raises questions about how he can be removed from the presidency, though FIFA’s internal governance rules are ambiguous regarding such scenarios.
Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini’s careers are effectively over unless they succeed in appeals against their bans. Blatter announced his intentions to resign as FIFA president by February, while Platini’s hopes of succeeding him have been dashed. Their bans also weigh heavily on future attempts to meet FIFA’s ethical standards.
The charges against them stem from a controversial £1.3 million payment to Platini in 2011, deemed “disloyal” by FIFA’s ethics committee. Both individuals assert the payment was for Platini’s advisory work in 2002 but have faced scrutiny regarding their financial decisions and governance.
FIFA plans to hold presidential elections in February to replace Blatter, while UEFA will also need to elect a new head, likely after FIFA’s selection. In the interim, FIFA will be governed by vice-president Issa Hayatou, and UEFA will be managed by Angel Villar Llona.
The FBI’s investigation, spanning three years, began due to concerns over the World Cup bidding processes for 2018 and 2022. Allegations indicate that the corruption was orchestrated in the U.S., with the involvement of various banking institutions for transfer activities.
Allegations include criminal mismanagement and unlawful payments linked to Blatter’s dealings with Platini. The U.S. indictment cited extensive bribery and money laundering schemes dating back 24 years within FIFA, affecting the organization’s integrity.
A notable accused figure is Charles “Chuck” Blazer, who facilitated evidence against other FIFA executives. His cooperation has shed light on various bribery incidents concerning World Cup hosting selections, notably the accusation that South Africa’s 2010 bid was influenced by corrupt payments.
The sums involved are staggering, with the U.S. indictment revealing over $150 million in corruption linked to media and marketing rights for football tournaments. FIFA generates the bulk of its income through the World Cup, creating significant financial stakes as the organization faces scrutiny regarding its revenue practices.
The future of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups remains precarious, as investigations into their bidding processes continue. However, logistical challenges in relocating these tournaments appear insurmountable, with few countries capable of hosting events on such short notice. Qatar continues to confront allegations of misconduct surrounding its hosting, alongside criticism over labor practices related to event preparations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
