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Platini ticket fears Published: January 6th, 1997
Michel Platini has echoed FA fears that the World Cup could be wrecked by inadequate ticketing arrangements. Former French superstar Platini, who is now president of France 98, is responsible for organising and running the tournament next summer. But he shares concerns with the FA over unofficial agencies selling tickets on the black market and sympathises with frustrated England fans over the poor allocation, claiming the European Commission is to blame. He said: "We are aware of the problems to do with ticket availability and concerned about the security aspects. We wanted to have two or three ticket outlets in each European country so we could control sales properly but the EC insisted there could just be five for the whole of Europe. We were very angry with their decision but there is nothing we can do. It is these politicians who are responsible." The EC insist the situation will promote free competition but the FA are concerned that it will create a thriving black market and cause security headaches. Platini added: "The situation means that German fans could come to England to buy their tickets, for example, which is not what we want at all."
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