FIFA President
In response to inquiries from AFP on Saturday, FIFA had not provided any comments regarding the allegations. The Telegraph, which did not disclose its sources, reported that the employee in question received a substantial severance package, described as a "six-figure sum," along with coverage for her business school tuition, which amounted to approximately £45,000 (around $60,700).
UEFA's Acknowledgment and Defense
UEFA confirmed to AFP that a departure payment was indeed made to the individual involved, along with the funding for her MBA program. However, the organization emphasized that these payments were consistent with the regulations that were in place for departing staff at that time. UEFA also noted that these regulations have since been revised and tightened since 2016.
A FIFA spokesperson reiterated Infantino's strong denial of the allegations, labeling them as "categorically untrue." The spokesperson further stated, "Any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory." They also highlighted that no complaints regarding Infantino's behavior have ever been raised by any employee at UEFA or FIFA, asserting that there has never been an incident involving him.
Ongoing Controversy and Future Prospects
Infantino's current challenges are compounded by a recent crisis stemming from his controversial proposal to allow private investment in the World Cup, which was ultimately abandoned. This initiative had drawn significant backlash, particularly from UEFA, which has threatened to boycott future World Cups. The organization has expressed that merely retracting the proposal is insufficient to address their concerns. Infantino is set to seek re-election in March, amid this turbulent backdrop.
