Trending 
FIFA has condemned “a concerted and ongoing effort by some to weaken” the world football governing body and its president, Gianni Infantino, as controversy over his now-shelved private investment plan continues.
In a statement on Saturday, FIFA rejected reports concerning Infantino, describing some claims as “unsubstantiated assertions and demonstrably false claims.”
The statement came after British newspaper The Telegraph reported that Infantino had used his influence while serving as UEFA secretary general to secure a promotion for an employee with whom he had an intimate relationship.
The newspaper also alleged that the employee received a “six-figure sum” when she left UEFA, alongside about £45,000 ($60,700) in tuition fees for an MBA course.
UEFA confirmed to AFP that “a departure payment was made to the individual in question” and that it also covered fees for an MBA course at a local business school.
Infantino served as UEFA secretary general from 2009 to 2016.
The latest allegations come as Infantino faces growing criticism over his now-abandoned plan to allow private investment in the World Cup.
The plan faced strong opposition from UEFA, which on Thursday maintained its threat to boycott the World Cup despite FIFA withdrawing the proposal.
Infantino, who is seeking re-election for a fourth and final term next March, has also faced calls to resign.
FIFA said it accepts legitimate scrutiny but warned against what it described as misleading reporting.
“Scrutiny is not a licence to distort facts, amplify unsubstantiated allegations or manufacture distractions designed to undermine progress,” FIFA said.
It added that where reports are inaccurate or misleading, it would “challenge it directly and vigorously.”
FIFA also warned against attempts to influence the presidential election outside its established rules.
The governing body said it “will not support, facilitate or tolerate” any election process that violates its statutes, democratic procedures or governance framework.
FIFA added that those without the support of member associations should not try to achieve their goals through “allegation, insinuation or misinformation.”
