French football legend and former UEFA president Michel Platini has initiated legal proceedings against FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino, filing a criminal complaint in Paris through his legal representatives shortly ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening period.
According to the complaint, Platini alleges that a coordinated effort was undertaken in 2015 to remove him from the FIFA presidential race. He claims that false allegations and improper influence were used to damage his reputation, thereby preventing him from advancing to the organisation’s top position.
The complaint also names five additional officials connected to Swiss football administration and the judicial system. Among those identified are former Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber and former FIFA legal chief Marco Villiger.
Platini’s close associates have indicated that, alongside the criminal proceedings, preparations are also underway to file a separate civil action seeking financial compensation from FIFA. In 2022, Platini had previously raised similar allegations against the Swiss authorities.
FIFA has not yet issued any official response regarding the latest complaint. It is noted that before becoming FIFA president in 2016, Infantino worked closely with Platini during their overlapping period at UEFA. At one stage, Platini was widely considered the leading candidate to succeed as FIFA president.
However, in 2015, his prospects were significantly affected following allegations of financial irregularities. This led to an investigation into a payment of 2 million Swiss francs, involving both Platini and then-FIFA president Sepp Blatter. After a prolonged legal process, both were acquitted of wrongdoing in 2022, including at the appeal stage.
Case Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Complainant | Michel Platini |
| Defendants | FIFA, Gianni Infantino, and five officials |
| Filing location | Paris |
| Core allegation | Alleged coordinated effort in 2015 to block FIFA presidency bid |
| Additional legal action | Planned civil claim for compensation |
| Related investigation | 2 million Swiss franc payment case |
| Previous outcome (2022) | Platini and Sepp Blatter acquitted |
The officials named in the current complaint include former Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber and former FIFA legal chief Marco Villiger. FIFA has so far not commented on the allegations.