FIFA President Gianni Infantino has received a public apology from The Times after the newspaper admitted that claims he received a "second salary" from FIFA were incorrect. The world governing body of football has reaffirmed its belief that there is a concerted effort to undermine Infantino, who is facing increased scrutiny ahead of next year's presidential election.
The apology comes after The Times published a report on 13 October 2026 alleging that Infantino received a second salary from FIFA, which the organisation had failed to disclose. FIFA has stated that the accusations were unfounded and has criticised the "damaging report".
Apology from The Times
In a correction published by The Times, the newspaper stated: "On 13 October 2026 (Sport), we reported that Gianni Infantino received a 'second salary' from FIFA, which FIFA had failed to disclose. This is incorrect."
The Times further clarified that "there was no 'second salary'" and that regulations do not require FIFA to include expenses and reimbursements received by Infantino in its annual report, as they are not considered "compensation" under Swiss reporting requirements.
The newspaper also accepted that Infantino did not purchase a property in Miami at a suspected undervalue, and that neither he nor his family are the legal or beneficial owners of Shadi LLC, nor do they have any control over that company. The Times said: "We are happy to make these corrections and apologise to Mr Infantino and FIFA for the errors."
FIFA's Response
FIFA highlighted the apology and set out its intention to "vigorously" challenge inaccurate reporting. In a statement, FIFA said: "As FIFA stated in August, it is evident that there is a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine FIFA and its President."
FIFA urged the media to "act responsibly and carefully verify all sourcing to prevent the publication and subsequent reproduction of false and defamatory information." The organisation added: "FIFA welcomes legitimate scrutiny. But scrutiny is not a license to amplify false allegations. Where reporting is inaccurate, misleading, or totally false, as in this case, FIFA will continue to challenge it directly and vigorously."
Ongoing Scrutiny and Election Context
Infantino has come under increased scrutiny after his proposal to sell off stakes in the World Cup to private investors. Earlier this week, UEFA called upon FIFA to release key documents, setting a deadline of November 2. In a letter, the European governing body asked 42 questions covering issues such as the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) private investment, the FIFA Peace Prize and the decision to suspend US star Folarin Balogun's ban at the World Cup.
Infantino is standing for re-election as FIFA president, with a deadline of November 18 for a rival candidate to make themselves known. Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been touted in some corners as a unity candidate.
