FIFA has pushed back against what it called a "concerted and ongoing effort" to undermine the governing body and President Gianni Infantino over allegations concerning his conduct while at UEFA.
UEFA confirmed Saturday a "departure payment" was made to a female employee alleged to have been in a relationship with Infantino when he was the European organization's general secretary.
The Daily Telegraph reported the woman received a six-figure sum and UEFA confirmed a payment was made along with covering the fees for an MBA course, adding it was "in line" with regulations at the time.
The allegations intensify the position of Infantino, who worked at UEFA for 16 years and was its general secretary between 2009 and 2016 before being elected FIFA president, following his aborted plan to sell off stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
While not directly referencing UEFA's statement, FIFA accused Infantino's critics of trying to weaken his authority and have him removed from his role without a due re-election process.
