How Fifa bought luxury apartments for their bosses

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Thanks to the philanthropy of the Swiss state government, Zurich-based football federation Fifa was able to buy two flats. This was greenlit in 2003 and put Lex Koller at ease.

The World Football Association has applied for an exceptional permit for an apartment at Pilatusstrasse 20. This was reported by the “Neue Zürcher Zeitung”, which was informed about the relevant official documents. The two apartments are in the immediate vicinity of FIFA headquarters in Zurichberg.

FIFA leadership under one roof

It should have two apartments and a two bedroom loft and a fitness/hobby room. “An apartment and penthouse must be given on loan to the current FIFA President,” the document says. Back then it was Sepp Blatter (87). Today Gianni Infantino (53) was allowed to use the flat.

According to the request to the Federal Council, the second flat should be used “to house FIFA executives who are temporarily in Zurich”.

State political interest

The Football Association found it unacceptable to house its executives in a luxury flat for rent. As a non-Swiss entity, Fifa needed an exceptional permit to purchase. Because Lex Koller has severely restricted the sale of Swiss land to foreigners since 1985.

However, FIFA received an exceptional permit: “Accordingly, the political interest of the federal government in keeping Fifa in our country for social, cultural and economic reasons must be confirmed,” says the Federal Council in its justification. The support of the Governing Council of the Canton of Zurich has probably helped the football federation. The Ministry of Economic Affairs of the period stated that Fifa contributed greatly to the positive perception of Zurich and Switzerland in the world. (he)

Source :Blick