FIFA condemns concerted effort to undermine Infantino

The International Football Association Board’s president, Gianni Infantino, has issued a statement denying claims that the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) paid off his alleged lover while he served as the body’s general secretary. The allegations, which surfaced earlier this month on social media and were amplified by a series of anonymous reports, suggested that UEFA had provided financial support to a private individual in exchange for undisclosed favors. Infantino’s statement, released through his official channel, categorically rejects the accusations and asserts that no such payments were made.

The statement also clarifies that Infantino’s tenure as UEFA’s general secretary, which ended in 2016, was conducted in accordance with the organization’s internal governance and financial oversight procedures. He emphasized that all transactions involving UEFA funds are subject to rigorous audit and compliance protocols, and that the organization has no record of any payments to private individuals outside of legitimate sponsorship or contractual agreements. The allegations have prompted UEFA to reaffirm its commitment to transparency and to invite an independent review of the claims, though no formal investigation has yet been announced.

In closing, Infantino reiterated his willingness to cooperate with any inquiries that might arise from the allegations. He also urged the media and public to rely on verified information before drawing conclusions. The statement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of football’s governing bodies, with stakeholders calling for greater accountability and clearer disclosure of financial dealings.