FIFA President Gianni Infantino allegedly helped a woman believed to be his mistress receive an executive promotion at UEFA, according to The Telegraph. The British newspaper reported that the woman also received a six-figure payout during their relationship.
The allegations surface following the failure of Infantino's project to sell World Cup shares. At the time of the alleged relationship, Infantino served as general secretary of UEFA under former president Michel Platini. UEFA reportedly funded the woman's business school MBA studies after she left the organization.
Responses from governing bodies and Platini
UEFA acknowledged that a payment was made and confirmed it was aware of allegations regarding her relationship with Infantino. The organization later updated its internal rules to align with modern organizational standards. FIFA categorically refuted the claims, stating that the allegations are completely false.
Platini was reportedly furious when he learned about the affair while leading UEFA. A source cited by the report said Platini confronted Infantino and asked him to choose between the woman or his position, prompting Infantino to reply that she would leave. Another source stated that some UEFA officials advised Platini, the former France number 10, to fire Infantino.
