DOHA: UEFA President Michel Platini has backed World Cups taking place in Russia and Qatar, according to press reports. Platini said FIFA made the right choice in awarding the 2018 edition to Russia and the 2022 edition to Qatar. Platini said: "In Qatar and Russia you choose the two countries who have never staged a World Cup before. Considering that the game needs to go all over the world, it was a right decision." Platini confirmed that he was very happy "to vote in favor of Qatar," adding: "It was my decision." He denied allegations of being pressured by the French government in order to vote for Qatar. Platini stressed that the decision not to compete with Joseph Blatter in the FIFA Presidential race resulted because he had unfinished business as UEFA President. Platini said it was decision which was taken with full conviction.