UEFA chief Michel Platini believes the influence of French president Nicolas Sarkozy proved crucial as France won the right to host Euro 2016.

France's candidacy was supported by Sarkozy and although the Turkey president was also in attendance, Platini, who did not have a vote, believes Sarkozy's influence tipped the balance in his country's favour.

"I think the fact that the President of the Republic was here was important," said Platini.

"The presence of Nicolas Sarkozy tipped the balance. In the end it was 7-6. So, I think it was good he decided to come. If he hadn't come, Turkey would certainly have won."

Former France and Juventus legend Platini, however, was quick to play down any accusations of favouritism.

"I am (UEFA) president of 53 countries. There were three great candidates. In the end it came down to nothing, as much in the (bid) evaluations as in the final decision," he added.

"I'm proud, for a lot of reasons. I'm happy because France has won, and I'm French - let's not forget it. And, secondly, because it was such a tight battle, transparent.

"There was no presidential favouritism."

Factfile

Population: 65 million.
Size: 547,030 km sq.
Number of licensed players: 2.1 million.
National team honours: World Cup 1998, Euro 1984 and Euro 2000.
Key clubs: Marseille, Lyon, Paris SG, Bordeaux.
Key stadiums: Stade de France (76,474 seats) and Parc des Princes (40,058) in Paris, Stade Velodrome in Marseille (65,000), Lille (47,882) and Lyon (57,628).