GENEVA – The European football governing body, UEFA, may initiate an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tenure of current FIFA President Gianni Infantino within the organization. This is due to information regarding a financial settlement made to a former UEFA employee, with whom Infantino allegedly had a romantic relationship during his time as Secretary General, according to reports published by The Telegraph newspaper.
According to the British newspaper, UEFA reportedly paid the woman a six-figure sum after her departure. The organization also allegedly covered the costs associated with her MBA program studies. UEFA has confirmed the existence of the payment but stated that it was made in accordance with the employment regulations in place at the time. UEFA subsequently tightened its rules.
The case is now taking on a new dimension, as UEFA is reportedly considering reviewing Infantino's conduct during his long tenure within the organization. Infantino served as Secretary General of UEFA from 2009 to 2016, before being elected President of FIFA in 2016.
Infantino himself denies the allegations. FIFA has described the claims as false and defamatory. According to the leadership of the world football federation, no employee complaints were filed against Infantino regarding his conduct at UEFA or FIFA. FIFA also states that all decisions concerning employees, including severance packages, were approved by the appropriate representatives in accordance with the rules in place at the time.
The controversy comes at a time when Infantino is already under increased pressure due to disputes with European football. UEFA has recently strongly opposed some of his plans regarding the future financing and commercial operation of FIFA competitions. The dispute between the two organizations could therefore have a significant impact on the future of world football.
It is not yet clear whether UEFA will actually launch a formal investigation, or what its scope might be. However, the publication of this information raises questions about potential conflicts of interest, the management of the organization's financial resources, and the way in which UEFA has handled relationships between its senior officials and employees in the past.
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