FIFA condemns 'concerted effort' to weaken Infantino amid controversy

FIFA has issued a strong condemnation of what it describes as a "concerted and ongoing effort" to undermine the world football governing body and its president, Gianni Infantino. The statement, released on social media, addresses recent controversies surrounding Infantino, including his now-shelved plan to introduce private investors to the World Cup.

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Recent reporting has included unsubstantiated assertions and demonstrably false claims concerning FIFA and its President.

The global football organization also pushed back against allegations published by a British newspaper. These reports claimed Infantino paid off a former lover while he was secretary general of European football's governing body, UEFA. FIFA stated that recent reporting included "unsubstantiated assertions and demonstrably false claims."

UEFA confirmed that a departure payment was made to the individual in question, along with MBA course fees. FIFA, however, insisted it "welcomes legitimate scrutiny" but warned that "scrutiny is not a licence to distort facts, amplify unsubstantiated allegations or manufacture distractions." The organization vowed to "challenge" inaccurate or misleading reporting "directly and vigorously."

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But scrutiny is not a licence to distort facts, amplify unsubstantiated allegations or manufacture distractions designed to undermine progress. Where reporting is inaccurate or misleading, FIFA will challenge it directly and vigorously.

Infantino, who is seeking re-election in March, faces opposition, particularly from UEFA, which has threatened to boycott World Cups. FIFA stated it will not support any election process inconsistent with its statutes and democratic procedures, implying that opponents are using allegations to achieve what they cannot through established processes.

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Those who do not have the support of FIFA’s Member Associations should not seek to achieve through allegation, insinuation or misinformation what they cannot achieve through FIFA’s established democratic processes.