Former Uefa president Michel Platini has admitted to manipulating the 1998 World Cup draw to increase the chances of a France and Brazil clash in the final, Telegraph reported.
Platini, who is currently serving a four-year ban for corruption charges, was co-president of the organising committee at 1998 World Cup.
According to the report, Platini claimed that the group allocations for seeded teams were made in such a way to ensure a final between the two heavy-weight sides.
While defending champions Brazil were placed in Group A, France was slotted in Group C to ensure that the teams would not meet before the final.
France would eventually beat the Selecao 3-0 in the final in Paris.
“There was a little trickery,” the 62-year-old told France Bleu Sport. “We did not spend six years organising the World Cup to not do some little shenanigans. Do you think other World Cup hosts did not?” he added.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!