Fifa President Gianni Infantino has strongly denied allegations that a former lover received a six-figure severance payment from Uefa while he was its general secretary. The claims, reported by the Daily Telegraph, suggest the payment was made to a woman with whom Infantino allegedly had a relationship during his 16 years at the European football governing body.

Infantino, who served as Uefa's general secretary from 2009 to 2016 before becoming Fifa president in 2016, has categorically rejected the accusations. A spokesman for Infantino told the Telegraph that the allegations are "categorically untrue" and any suggestion of misconduct is "defamatory."

Uefa confirmed that a departure payment was made to the individual in question. The organization stated the payment covered fees for the woman to complete an MBA course at a business school. Uefa added that all payments were in line with regulations at the time, although these have since been tightened to reflect modern standards.

The allegations surface as Infantino faces mounting pressure regarding his leadership of Fifa. He is currently dealing with the fallout from aborted plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, which has led to calls for his resignation.

Despite the controversy surrounding the World Cup investment plan, Infantino received backing from senior executives at a meeting in Morocco on Wednesday. However, European teams have threatened to boycott Fifa events, indicating that certain conditions have not been met following the withdrawal of support from the Football Association.

Conversely, the South American confederation (Conmebol) and the Confederation of African Football (Caf) have publicly supported Infantino. The football associations of World Cup co-hosts Mexico and tournament runners-up Argentina have also expressed their backing.

Infantino's tenure at Uefa began in 2000, and he rose to the position of secretary general before transitioning to lead Fifa. The ongoing scrutiny follows a period of significant controversy for the world football governing body.

Questions remain about the full details surrounding the Uefa payment and the impact these allegations will have on Infantino's leadership and Fifa's international standing.