Platini hints at moving European club fixtures for 2022 World Cup

UEFA president MichelPlatini says he would be willing to move European soccer club competitions in order to allow the 2022 World Cup in Qatar to be played in the winter.

The World Cup was “the most important thing” and it would be better to play the tournament when the weather was cooler, Platini said.

The Frenchman, who could be FIFA president by 2022 if he succeeds Sepp Blatter when the Swiss retires in 2015, said he would have no problem reorganising the dates of the Champions League and Europa League.

“Of course. If we play in winter, it will not be a problem to organise it. How can people go to Qatar in 50 degrees Celsius in June? If the people can’t come to enjoy it, it’s not good. If we play in winter it will be not a problem. Instead (of stopping the season) in May you play until June, and then stop in December. Where is the problem?”

Platini also revealed he voted for Qatar. “I think it’s nice to go to another part of the world, with people who never received the World Cup. I think it was a good decision, but now I think we have to adapt when is the best moment and where is the best moment to play this World Cup in Qatar.”