Leaked records detail FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s rising pay

January 19, 2026 Oliver Obel

As FIFA prepares for a run of major tournaments in North America, newly disclosed financial records have drawn attention back to the organisation’s leadership — and to the compensation of its president, Gianni Infantino.

Documents that surfaced online and were reported by Le Monde offer a rare glimpse into how Infantino’s earnings have evolved during his time at the top of world football, at a moment when questions of governance and transparency remain central to FIFA’s public image.

From reform figure to long-serving president

Infantino has led FIFA since February 2016, taking over after the downfall of Sepp Blatter and the corruption scandals that shook the organisation. His presidency began amid promises of reform and tighter oversight, as FIFA sought to restore credibility with fans, sponsors and governments.

Born in Switzerland to Italian immigrant parents, Infantino has frequently spoken about his working-class background. After studying law at the University of Fribourg, he built a career within football administration, most notably at UEFA, before winning the FIFA presidency.

Later this year, he will oversee his third men’s World Cup, with the 2026 tournament set to be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

What the leaked records indicate

According to Le Monde, which said it reviewed US tax filings shared via the organisation VI, Infantino’s pay has risen sharply since his initial election.

The newspaper reported that his salary stood at €1.28 million when he first took office. By 2024, his total annual earnings had increased to roughly €5.27 million.

The documents cited by Le Monde showed a base salary of just under €2.5 million, supplemented by about €1.5 million in bonuses and approximately €950,000 in other taxable allowances. Pension contributions were listed at more than €130,000.

Bonuses, growth and scrutiny

The report said Infantino received a €1.77 million bonus following the 2022 World Cup. After his re-election in 2023, his overall pay reportedly rose by €2.7 million.

While his current salary has not been publicly confirmed, Le Monde reported that it was expected to increase further as FIFA expands major competitions in the United States, including the Club World Cup and the 2026 World Cup. Infantino has played a central role in promoting those events, including through high-profile engagements with former US president Donald Trump.

Separate documents cited previously by other media outlets have also raised questions about personal expenses, including alleged spending on luxury household items and clothing.

Limits to how long he can stay

Infantino is expected to seek another term in 2027, which would keep him in office until 2031. Under FIFA’s governance reforms, presidents are formally limited to a maximum of 12 years.

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However, because his initial term from 2016 lasted only three years, it is not counted as a full cycle. That technical detail could allow him to remain in power for up to 15 years if re-elected.

Beyond that point, FIFA’s rules would require him to step aside, ending one of the longest presidencies in the organisation’s history.

Sources: Le Monde, VI