The President of FIFA's Ethics Commission, former U.S. Attorney Michael Garcia, resigned today from his position after losing the appeal regarding the World Cup investigation he led. Garcia was not happy with the conclusions made by Hans-Joachim Eckert, who dismissed any wrongdoing by Russia and Qatar in order to be named host countries.
Garcia wanted his investigation to be taken seriously by FIFA, since he felt the briefing presented by Hans-Joachim Eckert left out important evidence that suggested serious breaches to FIFA's Code of Ethics. Eckert concluded both bids were corruption-free and decided to stop any further investigation.
"There will never be an independent committee, investigator or arbitrage panel that will change the culture inside an organization. As of today, I've decided to resign from my duties as FIFA's Ethics Committee President," can be read in a statement by Garcia.
García's 200,000 page report included interviews with 75 witnesses, where there was enough evidence of gifts granted to some of FIFA's top officers to benefit Russia and Qatar in their efforts to host the World Cup both countries eventually won. Eckert's 42-page briefing denied such claims and dismissed Garcia's findings. The former U.S. Attorney ellaborated on his decision, stating the truth about this case may never be disclosed.
"When I starter working here, I had the feeling that FIFA were on the right track and wanted to make a difference. But back in September I noticed there were people trying to obstruct my work. Eckert's decision disappointed me, since the Committee's call was not independent. My role in this matter has to come to an end," Garcia added.
