Allegations Surface Against Infantino Over Relationship With Former UEFA Official and Providing Favors

Staff Report: PNN

Amid controversy over plans to sell partial ownership of the World Cup, new allegations have emerged against FIFA President Gianni Infantino. British newspaper The Daily Telegraph has claimed that during his time at UEFA, Infantino had an alleged close relationship with a female official and that the woman received financial and professional benefits as a result of the relationship.

However, it is not clear from the report whether any independent evidence has been presented regarding the alleged relationship or the claims of providing favors. Infantino's side has directly denied the allegations.

Infantino joined UEFA in 2000. He later became the organization's general secretary in 2009. Before being elected FIFA president in 2016, he held several important positions at European football's governing body for many years.

The Daily Telegraph report claims that while serving as UEFA general secretary in 2009, Infantino developed a close relationship with a woman who held a comparatively junior position within the organization. It was also alleged that the woman received special benefits because of the relationship.

According to the report, even after the woman left UEFA, she received several thousand pounds from the organization. The newspaper claimed that Infantino played a role in the process through which the payment was made.

It was also alleged that the woman received a promotion by using Infantino's influence. The report further claimed that she completed an MBA course using financial assistance received from UEFA. The British newspaper said UEFA had confirmed information regarding this matter.

However, Infantino's side has described the allegations as completely baseless. In a statement to The Daily Telegraph, the FIFA president's spokesperson said Infantino strongly denied the allegations and that there was no basis for claims of inappropriate conduct or any violation of rules.

The spokesperson further said that no UEFA or FIFA employee had previously complained about Infantino's conduct. He also rejected claims that Infantino had been involved in any unethical or rule-breaking activities.

Meanwhile, Infantino has also faced criticism in recent times over plans to sell partial ownership of the World Cup. The emergence of allegations concerning his personal relationship and alleged provision of benefits during his time at UEFA has further intensified the controversy surrounding the FIFA president.

However, the report did not provide detailed information on whether any independent investigation has produced publicly available findings regarding the alleged relationship with the female official or Infantino's alleged direct involvement in her promotion and financial benefits.