FIFA president Gianni Infantino received an undisclosed $1.72 million payment in 2024 from FWC2026, the entity managing the 2026 World Cup, according to IRS filings. This additional compensation was not included in FIFA’s annual report, raising concerns about a potential breach of FIFA statutes requiring transparency for top officials' pay. Infantino's declared salary for 2024 was 4.274 million CHF (~$4.86 million).
A FIFA spokesperson denied any violation, stating full compliance with reporting rules. The Times first reported the extra payment, with former FIFA governance chair Miguel Maduro calling the lack of disclosure a clear rule contravention. The revelation adds to ongoing controversies surrounding Infantino, including a controversial World Cup stake sale plan and criticism over his handling of a disciplinary case involving U.S. player Folarin Balogun.
The FIFA Council meets Thursday in Zurich.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing