FIFA president Gianni Infantino faces allegations of past misconduct at UEFA

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been the subject of allegations regarding an alleged inappropriate relationship with a female employee during his tenure as General Secretary of UEFA. A report by the Telegraph claims that the woman, who was initially in an administrative position, received a promotion and salary increase during the alleged relationship. According to the report, UEFA eventually facilitated a departure agreement that included a six-figure financial compensation and the funding of the individual's MBA studies. Former UEFA President Michel Platini was reportedly informed of the situation at the time and requested explanations.

In response to the allegations, a FIFA spokesperson stated that Gianni Infantino categorically denies the claims, labeling them as false and defamatory. The organization asserted that no complaints have ever been filed against Infantino by any employees at FIFA or UEFA, and that all past personnel actions were conducted in accordance with regulations valid at the time. While UEFA confirmed that a payment was made to the former employee, it noted that such procedures were compliant with then-current rules, which have since been updated in 2016.