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Gianni Infantino: UEFA aware of allegation it paid off an alleged mistress of FIFA president while he worked at European governing body

UEFA confirms it is aware of an allegation that it paid off an alleged mistress of Gianni Infantino while he was working for them; Infantino, now FIFA president, strongly denies the allegations

FIFA president Gianni Infantino strongly denies the allegations
Image: FIFA president Gianni Infantino strongly denies the allegations

UEFA has confirmed it is aware of an allegation that European football's governing body paid off an alleged mistress of Gianni Infantino.

The Telegraph is reporting that while Infantino was general secretary at UEFA, a woman who was allegedly in a relationship with the now FIFA president received a six-figure sum.

According to The Telegraph, UEFA paid for the individual's MBA (Master of Business Administration degree) after she left.

In a statement to The Telegraph, a FIFA spokesperson said: "FIFA president Gianni Infantino strongly denies these allegations, and they are categorically untrue. Any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory.

"No employee at UEFA and FIFA has ever raised a complaint regarding Mr Infantino's behaviour because there never was an incident where he was involved. All company actions related to employees, including any departure and severance packages, have always been approved by the appropriate directors in accordance with all applicable regulations."

UEFA told Sky Sports News that an individual was paid, but this was in line with regulations at the time - which have since been tightened.

In a statement to Sky Sports News, UEFA said: "We are aware of the allegations and can confirm a departure payment was made to the individual in question, coupled with the payment of fees for an MBA course at a local business school.

"The payment was in line with the regulations that existed for departing staff at the time. Such regulations have been tightened since 2016 and the current staff regulations - which apply to all UEFA employees at whatever level - reflect those found in a modern, high-profile organisation."

Infantino worked at UEFA from 2000 until leaving in 2016, when he took up his current role at FIFA.

FIFA has been contacted for comment by Sky Sports News.

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