Fifa President Gianni Infantino strongly denies claims of severance payment to alleged affair partner during his time at Uefa.

In a new development that threatens to further complicate his tenure as Fifa president, Gianni Infantino has issued a firm denial against allegations that he paid an exorbitant severance package to his alleged lover while serving as general secretary of Uefa from 2009 to 2016. According to the Daily Telegraph investigation, a source close to Uefa confirms such a payment was made, suggesting there may have been undisclosed financial misconduct during Infantino's years at European football's governing body.

Infantino has strongly contested the claims, insisting they are 'categorically untrue' and implying that the insinuations of inappropriate conduct are defamatory. In doing so, he emphasizes his unwavering commitment to maintaining an unimpeachable record as president of world football. Speaking directly to The Telegraph, a Fifa spokesman defended Infantino by stating no employee has ever raised concerns regarding his conduct while in office.

Infantino's response comes as he defends himself from mounting pressure to resign due to the failed World Cup private investment plans initiated under his leadership.

Fifa’s Defense of Infantino

A Fifa spokesman said: '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.' This official stands by the 56-year-old Swiss executive, who joined Uefa in 2000 before taking over its presidency from 2016.

This response is particularly critical as FIFA faces increasing calls for his resignation following the World Cup reform proposals that were widely criticized and ultimately rejected.

Uefa’s Statement on Payment

A Uefa spokesman, however, acknowledged a departure payment was made to the individual in question. However, Uefa insisted this payment covered fees for an MBA course and complied with regulations at the time. It is worth noting that these regulations have since been tightened, reflecting those of a modern high-profile organization.

The details of the payment underline potential conflicts within both FIFA and UEFA's internal financial practices, with allegations suggesting a laxity in handling such sensitive matters during Infantino’s tenure.

Continued Pressure on Infantino

As Infatidio seeks to navigate his role at FIFA amid mounting internal and external pressures, including calls for his resignation from various football associations such as Norway, Mexico, and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the latest allegations place additional strain on an already fraught leadership position.

Infantino's efforts towards self-correction through recent apologies have failed to fully quell the controversy surrounding his governance of FIFA events in which private investors were involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question? Did Infantino resign from Uefa after the affair?

No, Infantino continues to hold positions within FIFA. He did not step down after receiving backing during a recent meeting discussing issues raised by senior executives in Morocco.

Question? What was the amount of the severance payment?

The exact amount paid is unknown but is described as 'six-figure sum' by The Telegraph, suggesting a significant financial transaction beyond normal company procedures.