Rui Pinto Accuses FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino of Shielding Man City and PSG from FFP Sanctions
Rui Pinto Targets FIFA President Over Financial Fair Play Claims
The whistleblower behind the Football Leaks revelations, Rui Pinto, has launched a fierce criticism of FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Pinto accuses Infantino of protecting elite clubs like Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) from facing tough consequences under Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules during his time as UEFA general secretary.
Man City Found Guilty but Sanctions Pending
Manchester City was found guilty of violating Premier League financial regulations over nearly a decade. This verdict came from evidence shared by Pinto in 2018. Although the club’s guilt is established, the exact penalties are still undecided. City has until October 2 to submit an appeal against this ruling.
Pinto Reiterates Infantino's Role in FFP Manipulation
On social media platform X, Pinto doubled down on his accusations, claiming that Infantino actively interfered to help both City and PSG avoid harsh punishments at the European level. Reports from Der Spiegel had earlier suggested these two state-backed clubs inflated sponsorship revenues artificially to meet FFP standards.
Facing the risk of Champions League bans in 2014, Infantino supposedly bypassed normal procedures to arrange lenient settlements for them.
"Back in 2014, there was a man who was already aware of the irregularities involving Manchester City," Pinto wrote. "The infamous Gianni Infantino, then UEFA general secretary, abused his authority, shared confidential documents and, in short, outmanoeuvred the investigatory chamber, doing everything in his power to ensure that both Manchester City and PSG would merely receive a fine, avoiding a deeper investigation that could have led to a Champions League ban.""Given his actions as UEFA general secretary and, more recently, as FIFA president, 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."
Official Denials and Growing Scrutiny
When these allegations first emerged, UEFA defended Infantino, saying his involvement was part of his role to assist investigations. Infantino himself dismissed the charges, claiming he only engaged in professional discussions and document exchanges.
PSG also rejected the accusations, stating they always followed laws and regulations strictly, highlighting their status as one of football's most audited clubs.
Despite these denials, Infantino faces increasing pressure. The Swiss Football Association withdrew its support, citing worries about leadership, governance, transparency, and decision-making after reviewing recent controversies.
Upcoming Deadlines for Man City and Infantino
Manchester City now focuses on the October 2 deadline to appeal their Premier League ruling. The final sanctions could heavily influence their future success domestically.
Meanwhile, Infantino aims for a fourth term as FIFA president in March 2027. European officials dissatisfied with his leadership style might encourage challengers, who have until November 18 to officially launch campaigns against him.
- Event: Manchester City vs Paris Saint-Germain
- Date: 14 Oct 2026
- Time: 22:00
- Competitions Involved: Premier League, Ligue 1, Champions League
