Gianni Infantino Accused of Contacting UEFA Employees and Paying Off
August 9, 2026 ·
Gianni Infantino, FIFA president, was accused of having a relationship with a female UEFA employee and paying for her compensation and MBA education. Infantino categorically denied these accusations.
Gianni Infantino Accused of Contacting UEFA Employees and Paying Off
Why this is important
The allegations against Gianni Infantino add to the pressure on the FIFA president who is already under the public spotlight. With allegations of inappropriate relationships and financial support for UEFA employees, Infantino's reputation as FIFA leader could be threatened, especially amid criticism of his controversial plans. It also highlights issues of transparency and ethics in international football organizations.
Background
Gianni Infantino, who previously served as UEFA secretary general, is now facing serious allegations that could affect his position at FIFA. The allegations come at a time when Infantino is struggling to maintain support for the policies he has proposed, including plans to involve private investors in FIFA's commercial activities.
Main Points
- Gianni Infantino Accused of Contacting UEFA Employees and Paying Off
- Gianni Infantino, FIFA president, is accused of having a relationship with a female UEFA employee and paying for her compensation and MBA education.
- 'Nieuwe beschuldigingen richting Infantino: UEFA betaalde 'geliefde''.
The case comes at a sensitive time for Infantino, who has previously faced heavy criticism over his plans for a FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which would allow private investors to have a stake in commercial activities surrounding major FIFA tournaments. The rejection of this plan has put Infantino in a greater spotlight.
The Telegraph revealed that Infantino had reportedly helped the employee get a promotion during their relationship. The employee allegedly moved from an administrative position to a managerial position, with a salary increase of around 30 percent, bringing his total salary to around 160,000 Swiss francs per year, or the equivalent of 170,000 euros.
In addition, UEFA is also reported to have provided a significant payment to the woman following the revelation of this situation. Reports say that the termination compensation reached at least six figures. Allegations regarding this relationship were first discussed by former UEFA president Michel Platini, who at the time was Infantino's boss. Platini reportedly gave Infantino the option to choose between staying with the employee or leaving UEFA; In the end, the employee chose to leave.
After the employee's departure, Infantino reportedly used his network to help him find a new job. UEFA has confirmed that the employee did receive payment for his termination, as well as tuition support for his MBA from a local business school, totaling more than 52,000 euros.
While UEFA acknowledged the payment, FIFA denied there was any relationship between Infantino and the employee. A spokesman representing Infantino said the allegations were untrue. FIFA also confirmed that no UEFA or FIFA employee had ever made a complaint about Infantino's behavior.
Infantino started his career at UEFA in 2000 and worked his way up to secretary general. He was elected as FIFA president in 2016 and continues to carry out these duties to this day. The next FIFA presidential election is scheduled to take place in March 2027.
What happened next
Infantino is expected to provide further explanation regarding these allegations, especially considering their impact on the image of FIFA and UEFA. If these allegations continue to develop, there could be a further investigation involving an independent monitoring body. This could also influence FIFA's future plans and policies, including initiatives such as FIFA Forward Enterprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Gianni Infantino facing?
Gianni Infantino is accused of having a relationship with a female employee while serving as UEFA general secretary and paying her school fees.
Who confirmed this allegation?
This allegation was first discussed by former UEFA president, Michel Platini, who was Infantino's boss at the time.
Why are these accusations emerging now?
The case comes at a sensitive time for Infantino, who has faced heavy criticism over his plans for the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE).
What changes have occurred regarding the employee?
The employee reportedly received a promotion from an administrative position to a managerial position with an additional salary of around 30 percent.
How much compensation does the employee receive?
The employee reportedly received termination compensation reaching at least six figures.