FIFA Alleges ‘Concerted’ Effort to ‘Undermine’ Gianni Infantino
FIFA said it will not ‘tolerate’ any process inconsistent with its democratic procedures.
FIFA released a statement on Saturday, reiterating its support for President Gianni Infantino amid mounting criticism. FIFA's assertion is that "there is a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine FIFA and its President." The governing body did not, however, identify potential perpetrators. The statement referenced a report by The Telegraph on Friday, alleging that UEFA compensated an alleged lover of Infantino's when the latter was their general secretary.
FIFA confirmed the payment was indeed made, but characterized it as a severance package while asserting they have since strengthened their regulations. FIFA also denied claims that Infantino had an affair with a junior employee, deeming them "categorically untrue" and "defamatory." These allegations come in the wake of FIFA's controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise plan, which aimed to allow private investment in FIFA's commercial and event operations, including the World Cups.
The plan was abandoned after receiving backlash from multiple soccer federations, notably UEFA, which has suspended its participation in FIFA tournaments until Infantino withdraws the proposal and guarantees such actions won't recur. In response to the growing scrutiny, FIFA has reiterated its stance that only legitimate scrutiny is acceptable, while vehemently opposing any process that conflicts with FIFA's statutes, democratic procedures, and established governance framework.
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