UEFA firmly denies allegations

In a letter addressed to Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, chairman of FC Bayern München, UEFA has expressed its shock at the club's statement that it has filed criminal charges against one of UEFA's employees.

FC Bayern München, a club which qualifies regularly for the UEFA Champions League, has today informed UEFA that it has filed charges for defamation against Peter Limacher, UEFA's head of disciplinary services, in a Munich public prosecution office.

UEFA wishes to reiterate its full confidence in Peter Limacher, who has never accused FC Bayern München of any misconduct, as it is a permanent principle of UEFA to presume innocence in the absence of any proof. UEFA will, of course, take any relevant legal action to protect its integrity, as well as the integrity of Mr Limacher.

UEFA investigates several dozen cases of potentially fixed matches each year, and it double-checks information which comes from a great variety of sources. However, UEFA presses charges only when strong evidence is provided. The match-fixing cases are extremely sensitive. Consequently, it is extremely important that investigations should not be considered as a sign of culpability.

In the case of the match between FC Zenit St. Petersburg and FC Bayern München (a UEFA Cup semi-final played in 2008), UEFA confirms that, as of today, no evidence of any match-fixing exists and that, therefore, no accusation was, or is being made either by UEFA or by Peter Limacher against FC Bayern München, FC Zenit St. Petersburg or any of their representatives. UEFA does not associate itself with any declaration in the press, or by any individual, in this matter. With regard to the past contribution of Mr Robin Bokšić to certain match-fixing investigations, UEFA will, given the recent public allegations, take all necessary steps to clarify the matter.

"I am extremely surprised by FC Bayern's reaction," said UEFA general secretary Gianni Infantino. "We have never considered them to be guilty of anything, and I am surprised to see them attacking UEFA like this. It is sad, and it appears as though they are overreacting. UEFA and the clubs are on the same side in such a battle, and we should remain united, to be stronger against corruption. Peter Limacher is at the forefront of a very difficult battle, and he has our entire trust.

"The fight against corruption is a priority for the UEFA president Michel Platini," Mr Infantino added, "but the fight is a difficult one. This is the reason why Mr Platini called for a European Police from the outset, which would be able to act globally against this disease."