Rui Pinto, the Portuguese data leaker whose Football Leaks disclosures triggered the Premier League probe into Manchester City, has declared that FIFA President Gianni Infantino has no place in the future of football.
Pinto took to social media to reiterate allegations made in 2018, accusing Infantino, while serving as UEFA general secretary, of intervening to secure lenient financial fair play penalties for both City and Paris St-Germain. According to Pinto, Infantino abused his authority by sharing confidential documents and outmaneuvering the investigating chamber to ensure the clubs faced only fines rather than more severe sanctions, such as Champions League bans.
“I can only say, in my humble opinion, that Gianni Infantino has become a cancer on football and should have no place in the future of the game,” Pinto wrote.
The comments resurface as Manchester City face the aftermath of a recent ruling finding them guilty of breaching financial rules over a nine-year period. City maintain their innocence and have until October 2 to lodge an appeal. The original investigation was sparked by documents released via Der Spiegel in 2018, which suggested the clubs inflated sponsorship deals to circumvent UEFA regulations.
PSG has consistently denied any wrongdoing, stating in a past statement that it has always acted in full compliance with sporting regulations and noting it remains one of the most scrutinized clubs in history.
Addressing the accusations, Infantino previously defended his actions as standard professional conduct. He stated that discussions, meetings, and the exchange of ideas are inherent parts of his role, adding, “If this is being portrayed as something bad, I think there’s not much I can do more than my job in an honest way.”
Infantino is currently under intensifying pressure from within the sport. The Swiss Football Association became the latest national body to withdraw its support, citing concerns over leadership, governance, and transparency at FIFA. This follows UEFA accusing him of “criminal mismanagement” regarding the Fifa Forward Enterprise scheme and the shelving of plans to sell stakes in the World Cup.
Pinto’s latest remarks come ahead of the FIFA presidential election scheduled for March 2027. Opponents have until November 18 to nominate an alternative candidate to challenge the current president.
Interesting timing right before the 2027 election. Is this genuine outrage or a strategic political move by his opponents?
I’m stunned City’s case is still winding down. How can Infantino claim innocence with such specific leaks backing him up?
Pinto is relentless, but these are old allegations. Infantino’s track record suggests he’s survived far worse.