FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing scrutiny after an international advocacy group, FairSquare, filed a complaint with the FIFA Ethics Committee alleging breaches of political neutrality.
The complaint centers around Infantino’s actions and statements supporting Donald Trump, including his call for Trump to receive the Nobel Peace Prize and his presentation of the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize to Trump.
FairSquare’s complaint outlines four alleged violations by Infantino, citing public actions and statements seen as supportive of Trump.
Infantino’s public call for Trump to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his role in the Israel-Gaza ceasefire. Infantino praised Trump’s presidency and encouraged support for his agenda.
Infantino lauded Trump’s leadership while presenting the Peace Prize. Infantino thanked Trump for inviting him to a political rally and used language associated with Trump’s campaign messaging.
The FIFA Ethics Committee will investigate these allegations, which could result in sanctions ranging from warnings to bans from football activity. The complaint also questions the legitimacy of the Peace Prize’s creation and the decision to present it to a sitting political figure.
FIFA board members have launched an official investigation, calling the award “corrupt” and made unilaterally by Infantino without board consent.