FIFA defends Infantino against allegations tied to his time at UEFA
FIFA has issued a formal defense of President Gianni Infantino following reports regarding an exit payment made to a former UEFA staffer. The organization claims the allegations are part of a coordinated effort to undermine its leadership and democratic processes.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights ongoing governance tensions within international sports bodies and the scrutiny surrounding FIFA's leadership.
LONDON -- LONDON (AP) — FIFA has issued a statement defending its president, Gianni Infantino, against what it calls a “concerted and ongoing effort” to undermine his leadership of the organization.
The statement was released Saturday, a day after a report by British newspaper The Daily Telegraph raising questions about an exit package paid by UEFA to a female staffer who worked with Infantino when he was general secretary of European soccer’s governing body.
UEFA confirmed that a “departure payment” was made to the employee and said it was “in line” with regulations at the time.
Infantino worked at UEFA for 16 years before being elected FIFA president.
In the statement Saturday, FIFA accused Infantino’s critics of trying to weaken his authority and remove him from office without due process.
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