Gianni Infantino Denies Claims Uefa Paid Off Alleged Lover
BBC Sport has reported that Gianni Infantino, the current president of Fifa, has denied claims that Uefa paid off his alleged lover. The allegations come as Infantino faces pressure to resign over his plans to sell off stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
Interviews & Profiles · 2026-08-07 22:57:22
This story discusses unconfirmed interpretations. Speculation is identified clearly and should not be read as established fact.
BBC Report
BBC Sport has reported that a Daily Telegraph investigation found that Uefa paid a six-figure sum to a woman who had an alleged relationship with Infantino during his time at European football's governing body. The payment was made to cover the fees for her to complete an MBA course at a local business school.
Uefa's Confirmation
Uefa has confirmed that a payment was made to the woman in question, but stated that all payments were in line with regulations at the time. The regulations have since been tightened and now reflect those found in a modern, high-profile organisation.
Contract and Club Context
Infantino joined Uefa in 2000 and became secretary general in 2009, before being appointed Fifa president in 2016. This move highlights the close relationship between Infantino and Uefa, which has been a subject of controversy in recent times.
Concluding Paragraph
The claims put further pressure on Infantino, who is facing calls to resign as Fifa president over the World Cup private investment plan. European teams have threatened to boycott Fifa events despite the plans being aborted, saying certain conditions have not been met. However, Conmebol - the South American confederation - and the Confederation of African Football (Caf) have backed Infantino, as have the football associations of World Cup co-hosts Mexico and tournament runners-up Argentina.
