Infantino denies UEFA payout claim amid FIFA-UEFA rift

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has rejected allegations linking him to a severance payment made by UEFA to a former employee during the period when he served as UEFA general secretary. His office said the claim was defamatory and “categorically untrue,” and Infantino has said no formal complaints have been lodged about his conduct.

The allegation was reported by the Daily Telegraph. In response, UEFA confirmed that a departure payment and educational fees were issued to the former employee. UEFA said the disbursements were made in line with the organization’s regulations.

UEFA confirms payment while Infantino denies wrongdoing

The differing statements place Infantino’s denial alongside UEFA’s acknowledgment of the financial package, though UEFA did not describe the payment as improper. Infantino’s office framed the underlying allegation as false and damaging.

The disclosure has surfaced during a period of heightened strain in football governance, adding another point of contention as relations between FIFA and UEFA remain tense.

No-confidence stance and calls for resignation

UEFA has publicly stated it has no confidence in Infantino’s leadership. That position has been reinforced by opposition from the Norwegian Football Federation, which has formally called for Infantino to resign.

The clash underscores an intensifying divide between the two bodies, with the dispute unfolding in public statements rather than being contained within internal channels.

2027 election timeline set despite controversy

Despite the criticism, Infantino is currently the only candidate for FIFA’s next presidential election, which is scheduled for March 2027 in Rabat. The nomination deadline for the vote is November 18.

The situation leaves FIFA heading toward an election cycle in which leadership challenges are playing out well ahead of the ballot, while key stakeholders signal sharply different views about Infantino’s stewardship.

The episode also highlights how governance disputes inside global football can quickly become institutional flashpoints, especially when they involve relations between FIFA and UEFA and questions about leadership credibility. Officials have not indicated any change to the election timetable in connection with the latest claims, and it remains unclear whether additional formal complaints will emerge.