Zurich, Aug 8 (IANS) FIFA president Gianni Infantino has strongly denied allegations concerning an alleged relationship during his time as UEFA general secretary and a subsequent payment made to the woman involved, describing the claims as 'categorically untrue'.

The allegations relate to Infantino's time as UEFA general secretary between 2009 and 2016, before he became FIFA president.

According to an investigation by The Daily Telegraph, UEFA paid a six-figure departure payment to a woman alleged to have had a relationship with Infantino during his tenure at the European governing body.

"FIFA president Gianni Infantino strongly denies these allegations, and they are categorically untrue. Any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory," a FIFA spokesman told the publication.

UEFA has reportedly confirmed that a departure payment was made to the individual in question but said the payment was made in accordance with the rules that were applicable at the time. The governing body also said the payment covered fees for the woman to complete an MBA course at a local business school.

UEFA added that its regulations have since been strengthened and now reflect the standards expected of a modern international sporting organisation.

Infantino's representatives also denied any suggestion that he had faced a formal complaint over his conduct during his time at UEFA or since becoming FIFA president.

"No employee at UEFA and FIFA has ever raised a complaint regarding Mr Infantino's behaviour because there never was an incident where he was involved," the FIFA spokesman said.

The allegations have surfaced at a particularly sensitive time for Infantino, who is facing criticism over his leadership of FIFA following the governing body's decision to abandon a controversial proposal involving private investment in the commercial future of the World Cup.

The proposal had generated opposition among several football associations and governing bodies over concerns about transparency, governance and the decision-making process within FIFA. Infantino subsequently apologised to FIFA's 211 member associations after the plan was withdrawn.

The episode has also widened divisions within world football. UEFA has said it no longer has confidence in Infantino, while Norway Football Federation president Lise Klaveness has called for the FIFA president to resign.

In contrast, the Argentine Football Association has reaffirmed its support for Infantino, praising his leadership and saying it believes the way forward is to continue working under his leadership ahead of the next FIFA Congress.

--IANS

sds/bsk/