Rui Pinto Accuses FIFA President Gianni Infantino of Shielding Man City and PSG from FFP Sanctions
Whistleblower Rui Pinto Targets FIFA President Over Financial Fair Play Claims
Rui Pinto, the whistleblower behind Football Leaks, has launched a fierce critique of FIFA president Gianni Infantino, accusing him of protecting Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain from financial fair play (FFP) penalties. Pinto alleges Infantino played a direct role in helping these clubs avoid serious sanctions during his time as UEFA general secretary.
Pinto Reignites FFP Controversy
Manchester City was found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules over nearly a decade, based on information Pinto exposed in 2018. Although City's guilt is confirmed, sanctions have not yet been imposed, with an appeal deadline set for October 2. Pinto used social media platform X to renew his accusations, claiming Infantino shielded City and PSG from harsh consequences in Europe.
Reports from Der Spiegel revealed that the two clubs, both backed by state funds, allegedly inflated sponsorship deals to meet FFP requirements. When faced with possible Champions League bans in 2014, Pinto says Infantino bypassed normal procedures to secure 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."
He added, "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."
Responses and Growing Scrutiny
When the allegations first emerged, UEFA defended Infantino’s conduct, saying his role included assisting investigative bodies to find solutions. Infantino rejected the criticism, describing his involvement as professional dialogue and document exchanges.
PSG also denied any wrongdoing, asserting they have always complied fully with regulations and are among football's most audited clubs.
Despite these denials, Infantino faces increasing pressure. The Swiss Football Association withdrew support, citing concerns over governance, leadership, and transparency after reviewing recent controversies.
Upcoming Deadlines for City and FIFA Leadership
Manchester City now focuses on the October 2 appeal deadline following their financial breach ruling. The club’s future success domestically may depend heavily on the final sanctions and appeal outcome.
Meanwhile, Infantino plans to seek a fourth term as FIFA president in March 2027. European officials remain critical of his management, and any challengers must announce their candidacies by November 18 if they wish to contest his presidency.
- Match: Manchester City vs Paris Saint-Germain
- Date: 14 October 2026
- Time: 22:00
