Former Swiss FIFA president Joseph Blatter and his French deputy Michel Platini are nearing trial in Switzerland on charges of "fraud" and "breach of trust" related to an improper payment case that ended their careers in 2015, according to the prosecutor's office, as reported by AFP on Wednesday.
The prosecutor's office indicated in August its "intention to file charges" against them, allowing them the opportunity to "submit potential evidence requests" before completing its investigation, a spokesperson confirmed, reiterating what was previously reported by the newspaper "Le Monde."
After six years of proceedings, both men will be tried in Switzerland at the Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona, a clear indication of the direction the public prosecutor's office has taken in this case, paving the way for the trial.
Blatter commented to AFP, "If there is indeed an indictment, I look forward to the trial with optimism. Finally, we will have the opportunity to bring all the facts to the table and clarify the matter."
Swiss authorities opened an investigation against Blatter "on suspicion of unfair management and breach of trust." He is accused of "improperly" paying 2 million Swiss francs (1.8 million euros) in February 2011 to Platini, then president of UEFA and FIFA's vice president.
Blatter was forced to resign from his position as FIFA president in 2015 and was banned by the continental federation for 8 years, which was later reduced to 6 years, due to ethical violations after it was revealed he allowed the payment of 2 million euros to former UEFA president and football star Platini.
