English newspaper accuses UEFA of paying Infantino’s mistress, FIFA president denies.

An investigation by the Daily Telegraph reveals that UEFA made a significant payment to a woman with whom Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, is said to have been romantically involved. This incident dates back to the time when Infantino served as UEFA's general secretary, from 2009 to 2016, and the woman reportedly received compensation exceeding one hundred thousand euros.

Infantino has responded to these allegations through a spokesperson, categorically denying any accusations of misconduct. The FIFA spokesperson told the Daily Telegraph: “FIFA President Gianni Infantino vehemently denies these allegations, which are categorically false. Any insinuation of misconduct or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory.” The statement added that “no official from UEFA or FIFA has ever lodged a complaint about Mr. Infantino's behavior, because there has never been an incident in which he was involved.”

Contrary to allegations of impropriety, UEFA confirmed to the Telegraph that a payment was made, although it did not mention any inappropriate behavior on the part of Infantino. The governing body of European football issued a statement admitting that “a severance payment was made to the person in question,” clarifying that this amount was intended to cover the tuition fees for an MBA course at a local business school. UEFA assured that all payments were in accordance with the regulations at the time, although it emphasized that those standards have since been strengthened to align with the practices of a modern, high-profile organization.

These allegations come at a delicate time for Infantino, who is under intense pressure to resign due to his recent plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, proposals that were subsequently abandoned. Despite apologizing for “mistakes” made in those initiatives, the FIFA president has not stepped down and received support from senior executives at a meeting held on Wednesday in Morocco.

With this evolving situation and FIFA facing increasing criticism, Infantino's continued tenure in office may be at risk. The implications of these allegations, along with the pressure for his departure, are making the situation increasingly tense within world football. What lies ahead for Infantino and UEFA is a question that fans and sports analysts will closely monitor in the coming weeks.