FIFA: Gianni Infantino targeted by revelations about $1.76 million in additional income

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is at the center of a new financial controversy. According to the British newspaper The Times, he allegedly received additional payments of $1.76 million in 2024 through a company linked to the organization of the 2026 World Cup. These sums were reportedly not disclosed publicly in the same way as his official salary, reigniting the debate about the financial transparency of the world governing body.

The revelations could further complicate matters for Gianni Infantino, who is already facing criticism regarding his governance. According to accounting documents reviewed by The Times, FWC2026 US Inc., a company created to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, allegedly made payments of $1.76 million to the FIFA president in 2024.

This sum would be in addition to the 4.274 million Swiss francs, or approximately 3.88 million pounds sterling, declared by FIFA as his annual salary. The British newspaper also mentions an additional $626,229 in reportable income, the treatment of which in public documents raises questions.

Financial transparency at the heart of the controversy

Beyond the sums involved, it is the compliance of the financial statements with FIFA's governance rules that raises questions. Article 43, paragraph 13, of the organization's statutes stipulates the individual publication of the remuneration of its principal officers.

Miguel Maduro, former chairman of FIFA's Governance Committee, believes that the failure to disclose these payments could constitute a breach of the organization's rules. He is calling for clarification on the nature of these revenues and the reasons why they were not presented with sufficient transparency.

At this stage, the information reported by The Times constitutes allegations that require explanation. It does not, on its own, allow for a conclusion that an offense has occurred.

The lifestyle of the FIFA boss was also questioned.

The British newspaper's investigation also delves into Gianni Infantino's living conditions in the United States, where he regularly stays as part of preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The paper specifically mentions the rental of a luxury beachfront residence in Miami, costing tens of thousands of dollars per month. The property reportedly previously belonged to Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google.

The newspaper also reports questions surrounding the acquisition of an $8.6 million apartment through a company. These factors fuel debate about the distinction between presidential expenses, professional benefits, and the president's personal income.

However, this information is insufficient to demonstrate improper use of funds. Further details regarding the financing arrangements, the nature of the payments, and their accounting treatment would be necessary to establish any potential liability.

A new challenge before the 2027 presidential election

This affair comes at a time of already strained relations for Gianni Infantino. His management of FIFA and several financial projects have raised concerns within international football. UEFA and Concacaf, in particular, have demanded greater transparency in the management of FIFA's resources and proposed redistributing a portion of its substantial reserves to the 211 member associations.

The Norwegian federation, for its part, has filed complaints with the relevant FIFA bodies regarding several controversial decisions. These initiatives demonstrate the challenges the president faces, even though he retains significant support within the organization.

Determined to seek another term in the presidential election scheduled for March 2027, Gianni Infantino may now be forced to answer further questions about his income. It remains to be seen whether FIFA will publish detailed information on the payments made by its American arm and whether these revelations will lead to a formal investigation.

For the head of world football, the issue now goes beyond just the question of his remuneration: it also concerns the credibility of FIFA's control and transparency mechanisms.