New FIFA President Gianni Infantino has praised and thanked banned former UEFA boss Michel Platini after a successful election that saw him replace Sepp Blatter.
Platini and Infantino’s predecessor Sepp Blatter were suspensed for eight years – reduced this week to six years – for a “disloyal payment” made by the then-FIFA president to the Frenchman in 2011 but Infatino did not hold back crediting him for the long journey they shared.
“Of course I have some words for him, too,” the Swiss said. “I have thanked all of those who have supported me on this journey, this adventure. But the adventure really starts now and of course I thank Mr Platini for everything that he has given me, that he has taught me, the work we have done together.
“I have strong thoughts, dear thoughts for Mr Platini right now, you can believe me.”
Infatino received the backing of 115 federations in the second round of polling at the extraordinary congress in Zurich on Friday where he was announced winner and new President.
