FIFA covered millions in tax bills for President Infantino

FIFA has been covering substantial tax liabilities for President Gianni Infantino, with the global football federation footing bills estimated at around US$4 million (S$5.1 million), according to recent disclosures.

The arrangement, which has not been widely publicised, represents a significant financial commitment by the organisation to its chief executive. Under FIFA's compensation structure, the Swiss-based body has assumed responsibility for Infantino's personal tax obligations, a practice not uncommon among international organisations but one that has drawn scrutiny given FIFA's chequered history with financial transparency.

The revelation comes as FIFA continues efforts to rehabilitate its image following years of corruption scandals that culminated in criminal prosecutions of numerous officials. The organisation has implemented various governance reforms, though questions persist about executive remuneration and the decision-making processes surrounding senior management benefits.

Infantino, who assumed the FIFA presidency in 2016, has overseen significant changes to the organisation's structure and revenue model. However, his tenure has also been marked by controversy, including investigations into his use of private jets and various compensation decisions that have drawn criticism from football governance advocates.

The tax reimbursement arrangement underscores ongoing debates within international sports bodies regarding appropriate levels of executive compensation and the transparency of financial arrangements between organisations and their leadership.