FIFA has launched a strong defense of its president, Gianni Infantino, claiming there is a coordinated campaign by certain parties to destabilize the governing body and its leadership. The organization issued an official statement following recent media reports concerning a departure payment made by UEFA to a former employee who allegedly had a relationship with Infantino during his tenure as UEFA general secretary.
The Daily Telegraph reported that the employee received a six-figure sum and had her MBA course fees covered by UEFA. In response, UEFA confirmed that a payment was made and that it was consistent with the regulations in place at the time. FIFA has dismissed the allegations regarding the nature of the relationship as "categorically untrue" and described any suggestions of inappropriate conduct or regulatory violations as defamatory.
A spokesperson for FIFA stated that Infantino, who was democratically elected by member associations, continues to serve with their support. The governing body argued that those unable to succeed through established democratic processes are resorting to misinformation and unsubstantiated claims. The statement emphasized that speculation should not be treated as fact and noted that repeating allegations does not validate them.
While asserting that it welcomes legitimate scrutiny, FIFA warned that it would vigorously challenge any reporting it deems inaccurate or misleading. The organization stated that it would not be diverted from its mission to strengthen its global operations and serve its 211 member associations. This latest tension follows the collapse of a project involving private investment in a company intended to manage FIFA competitions, including the men’s and women’s World Cups. Despite the setback, FIFA has confirmed it will not accept any challenges to Infantino’s position before the next election in March. Meanwhile, the threat from UEFA regarding a potential boycott of FIFA competitions by its 55 member nations remains active, with the confederation noting that the cancellation of the investment scheme does not resolve their concerns.
Defending Infantino as a leader who has “dedicated more than 30 years of his professional life to European and world football”, the statement added: “Fifa welcomes legitimate scrutiny. But scrutiny is not a licence to distort facts, amplify unsubstantiated allegations or manufacture distractions designed to undermine progress.
