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The Office of the Swiss Attorney General was quick to dispel any notion that Sepp Blatter’s resignation let FIFA off the hook.
In a statement released within an hour of the Swiss national’s shock resignation, they noted his departure but affirmed it would not alter the progress of their investigations.
The Swiss OAG is investigating the voting that led to the award of World Cup hosting rights to Russia for 2018 and Qatar for 2022. Their investigation is not connected to that being undertaken by the US Department of Justice.
Statement from Swiss Atorney General
“The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (OAG) has taken note of the announced resignation of Joseph S. Blatter as President of the Fifa.
“The OAG has opened criminal proceedings against persons unknown on suspicion of criminal mismanagement and of money laundering. Therefore, Joseph S. Blatter is not under investigation by the OAG. His announced resignation will have no influence on the ongoing criminal proceedings.”
The BBC’s Dan Roan noted:
“Think this is bad for Blatter? Could be a lot worse for Qatar.”
Without Blatter to hamper or cover for the process, the Swiss should be able to get to the root of the voting procedure, especially now that some of those involved no longer have his protection.
It will be very interesting to see whether any of the candidates have the courage to campaign on the promise of a re-vote if the awards prove to be tainted.
Related:
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Sepp Blatter statement in full
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