FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing new charges for allegedly violating the principle of political neutrality, one of the body’s strictest rules. The complaint was filed by FairSquare, a well-known group dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability in international sport.
The case centers on a series of public expressions by Infantino that, according to FairSquare, constitute direct political support for U.S. President Donald Trump. The organization sent a formal complaint to FIFA’s Ethics Committee, reviving questions about the body’s independence in recent years.
The origin of the complaint
The controversy arose after the first FIFA Peace Prize was awarded to Donald Trump during the World Cup draw held recently in Washington.
The event revealed a close relationship between Infantino and the president, which provoked criticism inside and outside of soccer.
FairSquare argues that Infantino’s praise violates FIFA’s ethics regulations, as on multiple occasions the leader openly expressed himself in favor of Trump.
In October, Infantino wrote on Instagram that Trump “deserves” a Nobel Peace Prize.
During the draw, following the presentation of a video about Trump, Infantino publicly praised him:
“This is what we want from a leader… You deserve the first FIFA Peace Prize.”
You can always count on my support
Gianni Infantino
These statements, according to the code of ethics, could be interpreted as political endorsement, which is prohibited and can result in sanctions of up to two years’ suspension from soccer.
A questioned ethics committee
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Although the rules are clear, it is not guaranteed that the case will move forward.
Several sports analysts point out that today’s judges and ethics investigators have less independence than they did a decade ago.
This when FIFA ousted Joseph Blatter following a series of corruption scandals.
For this reason, some experts believe that the case may not prosper, despite the forcefulness of the complaint.
More statements fueling controversy
The case is not limited to a single event.
In November, during the American Business Forum in Miami, Infantino stated that “we should all support what Trump is doing in the United States,” a comment that drew immediate criticism.
In addition, on January 20 – the day of the presidential inauguration – Infantino posted on Instagram:
“Together we will make not only America great again, but the whole world great again.”
For FairSquare, this pattern of statements constitutes a repeated violation of the principle of neutrality.
For millions of Hispanic fans in the U.S., this scandal comes at a key moment, as FIFA maintains a growing presence in the country in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
The controversy raises questions about the transparency and governance of the body that organizes the most anticipated tournament in the Latino communities.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
