FIFA condemns 'coordinated effort' to undermine president Infantino

Football's world governing body, FIFA, has condemned what it described as a sustained and coordinated attempt to undermine the organization and its president, Gianni Infantino. The strong statement was issued on the social media platform X.

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The recent coverage has contained unsubstantiated claims and demonstrably false accusations regarding FIFA and its president.

FIFA asserted that recent coverage has included "unsubstantiated claims and demonstrably false accusations" targeting both the organization and its leader. While FIFA stated it welcomes "legitimate critical scrutiny," it drew a line, adding that "critical scrutiny is not a shortcut to distort facts, amplify unsubstantiated claims, or create diversions designed to undermine progress."

The organization did not specify which claims or accusations it considers false or misleading. However, the statement comes amid reports, including one from the British newspaper The Telegraph, alleging improper conduct by Infantino during his time as UEFA's general secretary. These reports suggest a relationship with a younger female UEFA employee, involving promotions and a significant severance payment upon her departure.

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Critical scrutiny is not a shortcut to distort facts, amplify unsubstantiated claims, or create diversions designed to undermine progress.

FIFA reiterated its commitment to challenging coverage that is "inaccurate or misleading." Infantino, who has faced calls to resign in the past, is expected to seek re-election as FIFA president next March. UEFA has previously threatened to boycott World Cup tournaments, a stance it maintained even after a private investment plan proposed by Infantino was shelved.

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Where coverage is inaccurate or misleading, FIFA will immediately challenge it.