Uefa has launched an internal investigation into the tenure of Gianni Infantino following reports that the organization paid £150,000—approximately two million Swedish kronor—to a former colleague with whom the current Fifa president allegedly had an affair. The payment was made in 2011 as a severance package when the woman left the European football governing body, according to reporting by The Telegraph.
Internal Probe into Uefa Personnel Decisions
The investigation centers on whether the alleged relationship influenced professional advancement or financial payouts during Infantino’s 16-year tenure at Uefa, where he served as general secretary. Reports indicate that the woman involved had received a promotion from an administrative role to a management position, along with a salary increase, shortly before her departure from the organization.
Uefa confirmed that a payment was made to the individual upon her exit. In a statement, the governing body maintained that the transaction was handled in accordance with regulations in place at the time. However, Uefa noted that it has since tightened its internal policies to align with the standards of a modern, high-profile organization.
Did you know?
Gianni Infantino served as Uefa’s general secretary until his election as Fifa president in 2016. The current investigation aims to clarify the specific mechanisms behind historical payouts made during his time in Nyon.
Calls for Resignation from La Liga Leadership
Javier Tebas, president of La Liga, publicly demanded Infantino’s resignation during an interview with the French newspaper Le Monde. Tebas argued that the Fifa president’s influence is detrimental to the sport, stating, “Gianni Infantino’s time is over for a long time.”
Tebas characterized his opposition as a long-standing critique of Infantino’s management, rather than a reaction solely to the latest revelations. According to Tebas, the current scrutiny reflects broader concerns regarding governance that have persisted throughout Infantino’s career in football administration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Uefa investigating payments made in 2011?
Uefa is reviewing the circumstances surrounding a £150,000 payout to a former employee to determine if the payment or preceding personnel decisions, such as promotions, were influenced by an alleged relationship with Gianni Infantino.
What has Uefa said about the payment?
Uefa acknowledged that the payment occurred but stated it followed the rules in effect at that time. The organization confirmed it has since updated its internal regulations to meet modern governance standards.
Has Gianni Infantino responded to the allegations?
The current reports focus on the internal investigation launched by Uefa. While critics like Javier Tebas have called for his resignation, Infantino’s direct response to the specific 2011 payout details has not been detailed in the current disclosures.
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