FIFA: "Fully respect and understand" the withdrawal of Michel Platini (Gianni Infantino, UEFA)

"I fully respect and understand Michel Platini's decision. I wish him all the best in his efforts to clear his name as soon as possible and I reiterate my support for his right to a due process," stated Gianni Infantino, UEFA general secretary and candidate for the presidency of FIFA, on 08/01/2016.

Gianni Infantino announced his candidacy for the presidency of FIFA on 26/10/2015, the deadline for applications in order to stand in the elections on 26/02/2016. "If Michel can and wants to be a candidate, I will not run against him," said Gianni Infantino on 10/11/2015. Michel Platini, suspended for eight years from any activity in football by the FIFA Ethics Committee of FIFA on 21/12/2015, announced the withdrawal of his candidacy for the presidency of the international federation on 08/01/2016.

"I have been further gratified and encouraged by the support I have received from the many football people I met all over the world during my campaign. I am conscious of my responsibility to them and to all of those who love our game. I look forward to building together with them the FIFA that…