Fifa president Gianni Infantino is facing scrutiny following a Daily Telegraph investigation alleging that Uefa provided a severance payment to a woman with whom he reportedly had an affair. The payment allegedly occurred during his time as Uefa general secretary, a position he held from 2009 to 2016. Infantino served at the European football governing body for 16 years before joining Fifa in 2016.
A spokesperson for the Fifa president stated that Infantino “strongly denies these categorically untrue allegations.” The representative further noted that any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or violation of statutes is defamatory, adding, “No employee at Uefa and Fifa has ever raised a complaint regarding Mr Infantino’s behaviour because there never was an incident where he was involved.”
Uefa confirmed that “a departure payment was made to the individual in question.” The governing body clarified that the sum covered fees for the woman to complete an MBA course at a local business school. Uefa stated that all payments were compliant with regulations at the time, noting that these policies have since been tightened to “reflect those found in a modern, high-profile organisation.”
The Telegraph reported that the payment was a six-figure sum. The allegations emerge as Infantino faces pressure regarding his future as Fifa president, following his failed proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
Sport has reached out to both Fifa and Infantino for further comment regarding the report. The Fifa president maintains that the claims are entirely without merit.
