Gianni Infantino faces fresh pressure after alleged UEFA payment to former associate

Gianni Infantino’s position as FIFA president has come under renewed scrutiny after an investigation claimed that a woman who allegedly had a romantic relationship with him received tens of thousands of pounds from UEFA after agreeing to leave the organisation.

The report by the British newspaper The Daily Telegraph, published on Friday, concerns the period when Infantino was serving as general secretary of UEFA. It alleges that the payment was made to the woman in connection with her departure, following the alleged relationship with the Swiss football administrator.

The claims add to mounting pressure on Infantino, who is already facing calls to resign after the failure of his controversial plan to sell part of the World Cup’s media rights.

The latest revelations are expected to prompt further examination of Infantino’s future at the head of FIFA, particularly his conduct during his time at UEFA. The report does not identify the woman by name.

The Daily Telegraph said resignation would represent the most straightforward way for Infantino to end the controversy. If he remains in office, the next major test is expected to come at FIFA’s election in March 2027.

Infantino could face defeat if enough member associations withdrew their support and a credible rival emerged, according to the report. Alternatively, he could decide not to stand for re-election.

FIFA’s regulations theoretically provide mechanisms for dealing with potential ethical breaches. However, the organisation’s statement this week acknowledged mistakes while insisting that “everything that was done was fully in line with FIFA’s regulatory framework”.

That position could come under increased scrutiny as questions continue over events during Infantino’s time at UEFA. The allegations are separate from the failed World Cup rights plan but have added to the wider debate over his leadership.

Political pressure may also become increasingly significant. Beyond FIFA’s formal procedures, opposition from national leaders and member associations could create an untenable situation for the president, the report said.

Mark Carney, the prime minister of Canada, has joined Andy Burnham, identified in the report as Britain’s prime minister, and others who have said they no longer have confidence in Infantino.

The developments leave FIFA facing renewed questions over governance, accountability and the president’s ability to retain the backing needed to remain in charge. Any formal action would depend on FIFA’s internal regulations, while the outcome of the controversy may ultimately be influenced by the position taken by member associations before the 2027 election.

Infantino has led FIFA through a period in which the organisation has pursued major commercial and political initiatives, but the failed rights proposal and the latest allegations have intensified doubts about his future. The new report means scrutiny of his conduct at UEFA is now likely to form part of the wider challenge facing his presidency.