Gianni Infantino Faces New Scrutiny Over Uefa Past
Gianni Infantino is facing fresh scrutiny over his past at Uefa after a report claimed a woman alleged to have been his lover received a severance payment while he was the organisation’s general secretary.
According to an investigation by the Daily Telegraph, Uefa paid a six-figure sum to the woman, who is said to have had a relationship with Infantino during his time at European football’s governing body. Infantino, who is married, was Uefa general secretary from 2009 to 2016 before moving to the top job at Fifa.
Infantino's Response
His camp has hit back hard. A spokesman for the Fifa president was quoted by the Telegraph as saying Infantino “strongly denies these categorically untrue allegations”. The spokesman added: “Fifa president Gianni Infantino strongly denies these allegations, and they are categorically untrue. Any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory.”
The defence did not stop there. “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,” the spokesman said, underlining the line from Infantino’s side that there has been no formal grievance about his conduct.
Uefa's Confirmation
Uefa, however, has confirmed a payment was made to the woman in question. In a statement, the organisation said a “departure payment was made to the individual in question” and clarified that the package included fees for her to complete an MBA course at a local business school.
The governing body stressed that the settlement complied with the rules in place at the time. It also pointed out that its internal regulations have since been tightened and now “reflect those found in a modern, high-profile organisation”.
Current Situation
These revelations land at a delicate moment for Infantino. His presidency is already under pressure after his controversial attempt to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors was abandoned amid fierce resistance inside the game.
The latest allegations add another layer to the debate over his leadership and judgment at the top of world football. BBC Sport has contacted both Fifa and Infantino for further comment as the storm around the president shows no sign of clearing.
