UEFA President Michel Platini said at the ninth edition of the Dubai Sports Conference on Saturday that though he is positive about the future of football, he "is still of the opinion that they can do more in order to shape better prospects for the game," according to Hisham Al Gizouli of the KHALEEJ TIMES. Platini said, “We understand that many children from around the globe, for example, have great passions and talent for the game, and it’s our job and mission to reach them wherever they are and whenever they need our help." Speaking about the social role of football, Platini "underlined the launching of the Respect campaign and the development of UEFA’s social responsibility portfolio." Platini said, "We have taken reforms to fight racism in the stadiums and we have intensified our fight against doping. We decided to attack the complex problem of corruption linked to betting in football ... and adopted a zero tolerance policy towards players, referees and officials." Platini "also highlighted the importance of promoting the training of young players and protecting teams’ identities and the women’s football as a priority." The refreshing of the value of national team football, the definitive implementation of financial fair play measures, the fight against violence and betting fraud and the end of institutional discrimination also "took centre stage in Platini’s address." Platini "called on the football family to contribute to football’s well-being." Platini: "Impossible is nothing. We must keep our passion to the game intact at all times. We have a notable duty to think of the next generation -- the football that we want to leave to our children and grandchildren" (KHALEEJ TIMES, 12/29).
