The creator of Football Leaks, Rui Pinto, has stated that Gianni Infantino should have no place in the future of football. Pinto released documents in 2018 that led to an investigation into Manchester City's financial dealings. The Premier League found City guilty of breaching financial rules over nine years, though they deny wrongdoing. Pinto alleges Infantino, then UEFA general secretary, helped City and Paris St-Germain avoid Financial Fair Play sanctions.
According to documents released by Football Leaks, Infantino intervened to help City and PSG receive more lenient punishments in 2014. The clubs allegedly overvalued sponsorship deals to meet Financial Fair Play rules. A PSG statement denied the allegations, saying they have always complied with sports institutions' laws and regulations. Pinto, 37, claims Infantino abused his authority and shared confidential documents to aid the clubs.
UEFA stated that the general secretary's role includes discussing and exchanging documents to assist investigations. Infantino defended his actions, saying they were part of his job to defend football's interests. Pinto's comments come as Infantino faces increasing pressure, including a shelved plan to sell World Cup stakes and accusations of "criminal mismanagement" from UEFA.
The Swiss Football Association recently withdrew its support for Infantino, citing concerns over leadership, governance, and transparency within FIFA. Infantino will stand for election for a fourth time in March 2027. His opponents have until 18 November to find an alternative candidate. Pinto's allegations against Infantino have added to the scrutiny.
FIFA and UEFA are based in Switzerland, and Infantino's actions have raised questions about his leadership. The FIFA president has made a bigger cash pledge to FIFA members, but faces opposition. UEFA and CONCACAF have demanded FIFA pays $10m to all 211 members. Infantino was invited to an African summit as he faces a challenge to his FIFA leadership.
The controversy surrounding Infantino's role in football has sparked debate. Manchester City's manager, Guardiola, has backed the club after the guilty verdict. The LTIF has announced a 2026 Pan-African edition in Accra from October 6-7. Other football stakeholders, including the FA chair, have demanded Infantino release World Cup sell-off documents.
Infantino's future in football remains uncertain amid growing criticism. Pinto's comments have added fuel to the fire, with many questioning Infantino's actions and leadership. The FIFA president's response to the allegations and his ability to maintain support will be crucial in determining his future in the sport.
Key points
- Gianni Infantino's role in helping Manchester City and PSG avoid UEFA sanctions has been questioned by Rui Pinto.
- Infantino faces increasing pressure, including a shelved plan to sell World Cup stakes and accusations of "criminal mismanagement" from UEFA.
- The Swiss Football Association has withdrawn its support for Infantino, citing concerns over leadership, governance, and transparency within FIFA.
