Infantino denies 'defamatory' affair claims made in British newspaper

British newspaper The Daily Telegraph published claims that FIFA president Gianni Infantino was involved in a romantic affair while serving as secretary general of UEFA. Both FIFA and Infantino have vehemently denied these allegations, labeling them as "categorically untrue" and "defamatory". Infantino, a candidate for re-election in March, maintains strong backing in Africa and South America.

The controversy began when The Daily Telegraph alleged that Infantino had paid off an alleged lover, and had previously influenced a promotion for the same individual. A FIFA spokesperson has not commented on the claims, while UEFA acknowledged a departure payment and tuition fees for an MBA course, but insisted the payments were in accordance with regulations at the time.

Infantino, who has been married since 2001, strongly denies the allegations, stating that any insinuation of misconduct is defamatory. The scandal follows Infantino's aborted plan to allow private investors to participate in the World Cup, which faced strong opposition from UEFA. FIFA has apologized for the handling of the proposal, reaffirming its support for Infantino.

Despite the controversy, Infantino continues to receive backing from several FIFA member federations, including the Confederation of African Football and CONMEBOL.