FIFA president Gianni Infantino faces scrutiny after reports revealed UEFA paid a six-figure severance package to a former employee who allegedly had a personal relationship with him.
The case dates back to the period before Infantino became FIFA president in February 2016, while he was serving as general secretary of UEFA. According to a report by British newspaper The Telegraph, the unnamed woman received a substantial financial exit package and UEFA allegedly paid her tuition for a university MBA program.
UEFA Response and Internal Regulations
UEFA confirmed that a departure severance payment occurred and stated that it was aware of allegations concerning a personal relationship between Infantino and the employee. The European governing body emphasized that the transaction complied with the rules in place at the time, adding that internal procedures have been tightened since 2016.
FIFA categorically rejected the claims. A spokesperson for the global governing body stated that Infantino categorically denies the allegations and described any reference to improper behavior or rule violations as slanderous.
FIFA Denial and Promotion Allegations
FIFA also stated that no official staff complaint was ever lodged regarding Infantino, noting that all decisions on personnel departures and financial settlements received approval from competent governing bodies.
The Telegraph reported that the employee originally worked in an administrative role before being promoted to a senior managerial position with a significant salary increase. Sources cited by the newspaper claimed the promotion took place during the alleged relationship, raising internal concerns at UEFA.
Her annual compensation reportedly reached approximately 160,000 Swiss francs after a pay increase of about 30 percent. The report further alleged that Infantino helped her secure a new position after she left UEFA.
Involvement of Michel Platini
Sources cited in the report stated that the issue reached then-UEFA president Michel Platini, who asked Infantino for explanations before an agreement was reached for the employee to depart with a financial settlement. Platini did not comment on the allegations when asked for a statement.
