Rui Pinto Accuses FIFA President Gianni Infantino of Shielding Man City and PSG from FFP Sanctions
Football Leaks Whistleblower Targets FIFA President Over Financial Fair Play Claims
Rui Pinto, the creator behind Football Leaks, has launched a fierce criticism against FIFA president Gianni Infantino, calling him a "cancer on football". Pinto alleges Infantino helped Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain avoid serious penalties related to Financial Fair Play (FFP) violations.
Pinto Reignites Allegations of FFP Manipulation
The investigation into Manchester City's finances traces back to documents leaked by Pinto in 2018. The club was found guilty of breaking Premier League financial rules over nearly a decade, though sanctions are still pending with an appeal deadline set for October 2. Pinto took to social media platform X to repeat his claims that Infantino, while serving as UEFA general secretary, intervened to protect both clubs from harsher European punishments.
Reports initially published by Der Spiegel indicated that both City and PSG, which have strong state backing, inflated sponsorship deals artificially to comply with FFP requirements. When they faced possible Champions League bans in 2014, Pinto says Infantino bypassed formal procedures to arrange lenient settlements.
"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 outmanoeuvred the investigatory chamber to ensure that both Manchester City and PSG would only receive fines, avoiding deeper investigations that could have led to bans."
Pinto added, "Given his actions both then and now as FIFA president, I believe Gianni Infantino is a cancer on football and should have no place in its future."
Responses and Rising Scrutiny
When these allegations first emerged, UEFA defended Infantino’s conduct, stating his role included assisting investigative bodies to find solutions. Infantino dismissed the accusations, saying his work involved discussion and document exchange, and insisted his behavior was professional.
PSG also denied wrongdoing, emphasizing they always complied with regulations and noting they are among the most audited clubs in football history.
Despite denials, Infantino faces increasing criticism. The Swiss Football Association recently withdrew support, citing concerns about governance and transparency after reviewing controversies tied to his leadership.
Upcoming Deadlines for City and FIFA
Manchester City’s next key date is October 2, when their appeal deadline arrives following the guilty verdict for financial breaches. The sanctions could significantly affect the club's future domestic success depending on the outcome.
At the same time, Infantino prepares to seek a fourth term as FIFA president in March 2027. European officials dissatisfied with his tenure mean any challengers have until November 18 to declare their candidacy to contest his leadership.
- Match: Manchester City vs Paris Saint-Germain
- Date: 14 October 2026
- Competition: Champions League
