FIFA President Gianni Infantino Faces Fresh Scrutiny Over Alleged UEFA Affair
Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, is facing fresh scrutiny over allegations that he received a six-figure pay-off from UEFA after a former employee, with whom he was in a relationship, left the organisation.
The allegations, reported by The Telegraph, claim that the woman was promoted while the relationship was ongoing before leaving UEFA with a substantial payment. UEFA has confirmed that a payment was made, along with funding for the MBA, although they insist both were permitted under the regulations governing staff departures at the time.
Infantino, who joined UEFA in 2000 and became its general secretary before taking over as FIFA president in 2016, strongly denies the allegations. A FIFA spokesperson said there had never been a complaint from an employee concerning Infantino's behaviour.
The alleged then-UEFA president Michel Platini knew of the relationship and confronted Infantino, demanding that either he or the woman leave, according to The Telegraph's report.
UEFA has since tightened its regulations, with its current rules designed to reflect the standards expected of a modern, high-profile organisation. The organisation said those rules have been tightened to prevent similar situations in the future.
Infantino's leadership of FIFA has faced criticism following the collapse of a controversial financing proposal involving outside investors. UEFA recently voted unanimously to oppose the plan, while concerns over FIFA's commercial direction have continued to grow.
Infantino remains determined to continue in his role and has reportedly told those close to him that he has no intention of stepping down. The latest allegations will likely add more pressure on a FIFA president already facing a vocal backlash from within the beautiful game.
The allegations come at a critical time for Infantino, whose leadership has been under scrutiny for several months. The decision on whether he will continue to lead FIFA will ultimately depend on the findings of any investigation into the allegations.
Source: Yahoo Sports