UEFA considers investigation into Gianni Infantino over financial disclosures
European football authorities are reviewing allegations concerning financial payments made to a former employee linked to Gianni Infantino.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Author: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
UEFA is reportedly considering launching an inquiry into the 16-year tenure of Gianni Infantino at the organization, following allegations involving financial payments made to a former employee with whom he allegedly had an affair.
According to an investigation by The Telegraph, the individual in question received rapid career progression and significant annual salary increases while working under Infantino, who served as UEFA's general secretary between 2009 and 2016. The reports also claim that UEFA funded a 45,000 euro-per-year MBA program for the staff member as part of her departure agreement.
While UEFA maintains that the severance payments were in line with regulations at the time, several high-ranking officials are reportedly pushing for a deeper review. The investigation aims to clarify whether the alleged personal relationship influenced administrative decisions during Infantino’s time at the organization.
Gianni Infantino categorically denies these allegations, which are totally false. Any insinuation of inappropriate behavior or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory. FIFA Spokesperson
FIFA has defended its president, dismissing the claims as entirely baseless and defamatory. Tensions between the two organizations have been evident recently, particularly regarding disagreements over Infantino’s proposals to introduce private funding into World Cup tournaments.