A new controversy has emerged surrounding FIFA President Gianni Infantino. An investigation by The Telegraph revealed that UEFA paid a six-figure severance package to a female employee who was allegedly involved in a relationship with the Swiss official during his tenure as the organization’s general secretary.
The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, reportedly received a substantial financial settlement upon leaving UEFA. Additionally, the organization is said to have covered the cost of an MBA program at a business school, valued at approximately £45,000 per year.
UEFA confirmed to the newspaper that these payments were made but insisted they complied with the rules in place at the time. The organization also stated that its regulations have since been tightened. “We are aware of the allegations and can confirm that the relevant individual received a severance payment as well as funding for an MBA course,” a UEFA spokesperson told The Telegraph.
According to the British newspaper’s investigation, the woman initially held an administrative role within UEFA and was reportedly promoted during the period when she was allegedly in a relationship with Infantino.
Her promotion reportedly raised concerns among some UEFA staff, who questioned whether Infantino was using his position to grant her preferential treatment.
The matter reportedly reached Michel Platini, then UEFA president. Multiple sources indicate that Platini spoke with Infantino and suggested that one of them should leave the organization.
Ultimately, the employee resigned from UEFA, receiving a significant severance package.
It is worth noting that FIFA President Gianni Infantino is married. He has been wed to Lina Al-Ashkar since 2001.
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