Infantino’s alleged relationship ends in UEFA pay-off Exclusive by The Telegraph

UEFA has acknowledged making a six-figure payment to a former employee amid allegations she had a relationship with Gianni Infantino during his tenure as the organisation’s general secretary, according to findings reported by The Telegraph.

The woman, who has not been publicly identified, is alleged to have been promoted during the relationship and later received a substantial severance package upon her departure. UEFA confirmed that the payment was made in line with the regulations in place at the time and also covered the cost of an MBA program at a business school. The organisation added that its internal rules have since been “tightened” to reflect modern governance standards.

The allegations date back to Infantino’s 16-year spell at UEFA, which began in 2000 before he became president of FIFA in 2016. Sources cited in the report claim the relationship raised concerns among senior UEFA figures, including then-president Michel Platini, who allegedly confronted Infantino and agreed that the employee would leave with compensation.

Further claims suggest the employee received a significant salary increase and promotion during her time at UEFA, prompting internal concerns over potential abuse of authority. It is also alleged that Infantino helped secure her subsequent employment after her departure.

Infantino is married to Leena Al Ashqar, whom he met through football; she previously worked for the Lebanese Football Federation. The couple married in 2001 and have four daughters. It remains unclear whether she was aware of the alleged relationship.

In response, a FIFA spokesperson strongly rejected the accusations, stating: “Fifa president Gianni Infantino strongly denies these allegations, and they are categorically untrue. Any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory.”

The spokesperson added that no formal complaints had ever been made regarding Infantino’s conduct and that all employment-related decisions were approved in accordance with established procedures.

The controversy adds to mounting scrutiny surrounding Infantino’s leadership at FIFA, particularly following recent disputes between global and regional football bodies over governance and commercial strategies.

By Tamilla Hasanova