FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been reported to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) over allegations that his conduct during the 2026 FIFA World Cup may have breached the organisation’s principles of political neutrality.
The complaint, filed by human rights group FairSquare, centres on claims that political influence played a role in overturning a suspension for United States striker Folarin Balogun following intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump. FairSquare also raised concerns over Infantino’s broader relationship with Trump and questioned whether FIFA’s political neutrality rules had been compromised.
FIFA has denied any improper involvement, stating that the decision to lift Balogun’s suspension was made independently by the chairman of its disciplinary committee. Infantino has also rejected suggestions that he influenced the process. The IOC has said it will consider the complaint if formally received, while pressure for further scrutiny has grown from members of the European Parliament and football governance campaigners.
