FIFA complain of a campaign to 'undermine' Infantino
FIFA has issued a statement claiming a coordinated effort to undermine president Gianni Infantino following reports of a past 'departure payment' made by UEFA. FIFA maintains that these allegations are unsubstantiated and intended to bypass democratic processes.
Why it matters
Reflects ongoing governance and transparency struggles within the world's largest football governing body.
FIFA has hit out at "a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine" the governing body and president Gianni Infantino over claims surrounding his conduct at UEFA.
UEFA confirmed on Saturday a "departure payment" was made to a female employee alleged to have been in a relationship with Infantino when he was the European organisation's general secretary.
The Daily Telegraph reported the woman received a six-figure sum and UEFA confirmed a payment was made along with covering the fees for an MBA course, adding it was "in line" with regulations at the time.
The allegations intensify the position of Infantino, who worked at UEFA for 16 years and was its general secretary between 2009 and 2016 before being elected FIFA president, following his aborted plan to sell off stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
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