Acquire a withdrawn new gTLD application?

Most withdrawn new gTLD applications were projects that submitted an application to ICANN but then, for whatever reason (auctions, failed project, lack of funding, too much time wasted waiting...) these applications were withdrawn.

For the increasing number of people who missed the first round of the ICANN new gTLD program, any application - withdrawn or "for sale" - can be understood as a second chance to participate prior to the next round to begin so yes, I received the question below.

Can I acquire a withdrawn application?
I was sent that question, a request to which I had to answer "no". If the answer to such a question can sound obvious, I sent it to ICANN and I received the strange following answer below.

What ICANN answers
Since a withdrawn application enters the validation process, I wanted to have the real answer from ICANN. I removed the name of the person who answered.

My question

--------------- Original Message ---------------
From: Jean [whatever@jovenet.consulting]
Sent: 10/16/2017 3:06 AM
To: globalsupport@icann.org
Subject: Withdrawn new gTLD applications

Dear Sir,

Is it possible to acquire a withdrawn new gTLD application? (re-pay fees,
etc...)

With regards,

The automated answer

--------------- Original Message ---------------
From: ICANN Global Support Center [globalsupport@icann.org.masked]
Sent: 10/16/2017 12:28 PM
To: whatever@jovenet.consulting
Subject: RE: Withdrawn new gTLD applications [ ]

Dear Jean Guillon,

Thank you for contacting the ICANN Global Support Center.

This message is to confirm receipt of your request regarding withdrawals. We have forwarded your case to our internal department and a team member from that department will be in contact with you shortly.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Best Regards,
(Name removed)
Global Support Analyst II
ICANN Global Support Team

ICANN's answer

--------------- Original Message ---------------

ICANN Global Support Center globalsupport@icann.org.masked via whatever 9:44 PM (14 hours ago) to me

Dear Jean Guillon,

Thank you for contacting the ICANN Global Support Center.

I will be happy to provide you with further information. You may not acquire a withdrawn application, but if the TLD is still available, you may apply for a new gTLD.

I hope this information is helpful to you. Please contact us if you have any additional questions or concerns. This case will now be resolved. Thank you for contacting ICANN.

Best Regards,
(Name removed)
Global Support Analyst II
ICANN Global Support Team

WTF

Hey wait: did I miss an announcement?