Swiss prosecutors set to drop one corruption case against ex-FIFA boss Blatter

In this Tuesday, June 19, 2018 file photo, former FIFA President Joseph Blatter arrives at a hotel in Moscow, Russia. Five years into a sprawling investigation of soccer corruption, the first courtroom trial in Switzerland is due to begin Monday, March 9, 2020 in a 2006 World Cup fraud case. (AP Photo)

by German Press Agency - DPA

Apr 11, 2020 3:08 pm

Swiss prosecutors intend to drop one of two investigations into former FIFA president Joseph Blatter.

A spokesperson confirmed Saturday that the federal prosecutor's office "intends to terminate the proceedings" against Blatter over a charge relating to TV rights sold to the Caribbean Football Union (CFU).

Investigations into 84-year-old Blatter continue over the alleged payment of 2 million Swiss francs ($2 million) to former UEFA president Michel Platini in 2011.

Swiss prosecutors had investigated Blatter for allegedly signing a contract unfavorable to football world governing body FIFA with the CFU.

CFU was then led by Jack Warner, who was banned from football for life and indicted for corruption by U.S. justice officials.

Blatter's 17-year reign as head of FIFA ended following the launch of the Swiss investigation and he now serving a six-year FIFA ban from football. Platini has served a four-year FIFA ban.