Gianni Infantino strongly denies allegations over UEFA’s lover payment

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has strongly rejected allegations surrounding an alleged relationship and a payment made by UEFA to a former employee during his time as the organisation’s general secretary.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has strongly denied allegations that he had an inappropriate relationship with a former UEFA employee and that the organisation subsequently made a severance payment to her.

The claims, reported by The Telegraph, have emerged as Infantino faces growing scrutiny over his leadership of world football.

A FIFA spokesman said the allegations were “categorically untrue” and described any suggestion of inappropriate conduct or breaches of regulations as defamatory.

Infantino also maintains that no employee at UEFA or FIFA ever filed a complaint concerning his behaviour during his time at either organisation.

UEFA has confirmed that a departure payment was made to the woman referenced in the report. The governing body said the payment included costs associated with her MBA studies and was consistent with the regulations in place at the time.

However, UEFA acknowledged that its rules have since been strengthened, with the organisation saying its current regulations reflect the standards expected of a modern, high-profile institution. Infantino was UEFA general secretary between 2009 and 2016 before becoming FIFA president.

The allegations add to an already difficult period for Infantino, who is facing calls to resign following the collapse of controversial plans involving private investment in the World Cup.

Despite the mounting pressure, Infantino has rejected calls to leave office and continues to receive backing from several football authorities.