Rui Pinto Accuses FIFA President Gianni Infantino of Protecting Man City and PSG from FFP Sanctions
Rui Pinto Targets FIFA President Over Financial Fair Play Controversies
Rui Pinto, the whistleblower behind Football Leaks, has launched a fierce criticism against FIFA president Gianni Infantino, accusing him of shielding Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain from serious financial penalties related to Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches.
Pinto, whose leaks triggered the ongoing Premier League investigation into Manchester City’s financial dealings, claims that Infantino used his influence during his UEFA tenure to help these clubs avoid harsh punishments. According to Pinto, the Swiss official manipulated processes to protect elite teams from UEFA's disciplinary measures.
Renewed Allegations on FFP Manipulation
Manchester City were found guilty of violating the Premier League's financial rules over nine years—a case rooted in data made public by Pinto in 2018. The club faces sanctions, with an appeal deadline set for October 2. Pinto took to social media platform X to reiterate his charges, claiming Infantino intervened to prevent severe European bans on both City and PSG.
Earlier reports from Der Spiegel indicated that the two clubs inflated sponsorship deals artificially to meet FFP rules. In 2014, when Champions League bans loomed, Pinto alleges Infantino bypassed official procedures to negotiate lighter settlements for them.
"Back in 2014, there was a man already aware of Manchester City's irregularities," Pinto wrote. "Gianni Infantino, then UEFA general secretary, abused his power, leaked confidential files, and outmaneuvered the investigatory chamber. He did everything to ensure City and PSG only received fines, avoiding deeper probes that might have led to Champions League bans."
Pinto concluded that given Infantino’s actions as UEFA general secretary and later as FIFA president, he considers him "a cancer on football" unfit to lead the sport's future.
Responses and Growing Pressure
UEFA defended Infantino, stating his role involved assisting investigations and seeking solutions. Infantino himself denied wrongdoing, describing his conduct as fully professional and within his responsibilities.
PSG rejected the allegations, asserting they complied with all regulations and highlighted their status as one of football’s most audited clubs.
Despite denials, Infantino faces mounting scrutiny. The Swiss Football Association recently withdrew support due to concerns about his leadership, governance, and transparency amid recent controversies.
Upcoming Deadlines for Man City and Infantino
- Manchester City: Must appeal the Premier League ruling by October 2; sanctions could impact their domestic success significantly.
- Gianni Infantino: Plans to run for a fourth FIFA presidential term in March 2027; challengers have until November 18 to register campaigns.
The upcoming months will be critical for both the club and the FIFA president, with consequences that may shape the landscape of football governance and competition.
