FIFA defends Gianni Infantino over £200,000 severance allegation

FIFA has strongly defended its president Gianni Infantino against fresh allegations that a former lover received a six-figure severance payment, calling the claims part of a campaign to “undermine” the organisation and its leadership.

The football governing body said on Tuesday it stood fully behind Infantino, who has faced growing scrutiny over management decisions and personal conduct in recent months. FIFA’s statement came amid reports that a woman linked to Infantino received a confidential settlement after their relationship ended. The payment, reported to be between £100,000 and £200,000, has raised questions about workplace ethics and transparency at the highest levels of world football.

FIFA dismissed the reports as “unfounded and defamatory,” accusing unnamed media outlets of orchestrating a smear campaign. The governing body said it had conducted internal reviews and found no wrongdoing. Infantino, who has served as FIFA president since 2016, is also under fire for proposing to privatise aspects of the World Cup, including commercial rights and even the tournament itself. Critics argue such moves could enrich private investors at the expense of the game’s global integrity.

The controversy comes as Infantino seeks a third term in office in next year’s FIFA elections, a race that is expected to be closely contested. Football federations and player unions have already expressed concern over his leadership style, including his frequent use of private jets and closed-door decision-making. FIFA’s defence of Infantino signals it is preparing for a tough re-election campaign, with transparency and accountability likely to dominate debate. The outcome could reshape football’s governance for years to come.