Scandal Allegation Against Gianni Infantino Over UEFA Era

FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing one of the most difficult periods of his career. According to an extensive investigation published by The Telegraph, Infantino had a relationship with a female employee during his tenure as UEFA secretary-general between 2009 and 2016. According to the report, the woman, who initially held an administrative role, was soon promoted to a management position — a move that reportedly surprised several colleagues within UEFA. Her salary is also said to have risen by around 30%, reaching 160,000 Swiss francs (roughly €170,000) a year.

According to the report, the situation caused significant tension within the organisation, with then UEFA president Michel Platini reportedly stepping in and presenting Infantino with a clear ultimatum: "Either you go or she goes." Infantino is said to have chosen to end the relationship in response. According to the Telegraph's investigation, the arrangement included a severance payment for the woman and UEFA covering the cost of an MBA programme worth around $60,800 a year, with Infantino also said to have helped her find a new job in a similar field.

A FIFA spokesperson strongly denied the allegations in a statement, calling them "categorically untrue" and stating that any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or rule violations was defamatory. UEFA has confirmed it is aware of the allegations but maintains that all actions were carried out in accordance with the departing-staff regulations in place at the time. The development comes at a time when Infantino is already under significant pressure over his plan to place part of the World Cup rights with private investors.

Source: The Telegraph
Image: Star