Gianni Infantino Denies Affair, Payout Claims Involving Ex-UEFA Staffer

UEFA has acknowledged a financial settlement involving a former employee amid fresh scrutiny of Gianni Infantino. Reports say the unnamed woman allegedly had a romantic relationship with Infantino while he was UEFA’s general secretary, and she received a six-figure departure package after alleged involvement. UEFA confirmed a departure payment and that MBA course fees were also covered, saying the arrangement complied with staff rules at the time, which it says have since been tightened since 2016. FIFA rejected the claims as “categorically untrue,” adding that no complaints were made about Infantino’s conduct and warning that defamation claims could be made. The dispute follows earlier allegations, including that Michel Platini confronted Infantino, with staff changes following.