FairSquare, a human rights organisation, has lodged a complaint with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) alleging that FIFA president Gianni Infantino breached rules on political neutrality. The complaint comes as the World Cup semi-finals approach, with England facing Argentina on Wednesday, and centres on Infantino's dealings with US President Donald Trump regarding the overturning of USA international Folarin Balogun's red card.
Details of the Alleged Breaches
FairSquare claims that Infantino, who became an IOC member in 2020, has repeatedly violated the Olympic Charter and the IOC's code of ethics. The most recent incident involves Balogun's one-match ban being rescinded by FIFA's disciplinary committee, allowing him to play in the World Cup last-16 tie against Belgium. This followed a telephone call between President Trump and Infantino, with the Swiss official maintaining that FIFA's committees function independently.
According to The Times, disciplinary committee chair Mohammad Al Kamali made the pivotal decision to overturn the suspension alone, despite never having been the sole decision-maker in any previously published disciplinary cases. FIFA has offered no explanation for the decision.
FairSquare's Complaint and Previous Actions
FairSquare's complaint highlights five clear breaches of the IOC's rules on political neutrality, along with 'prima facie' evidence of two further serious violations, including the handling of the Balogun matter. This is not the first time FairSquare has lodged a complaint over FIFA's ethics; a similar complaint was made in December, which was received but no further action was taken.
Last month, the Norwegian football federation sent a letter to FIFA's ethics committee requesting an investigation into FairSquare's complaint. On 29 June, 50 Members of the European Parliament also wrote to the committee, pressing it to address FairSquare's concerns.
Infantino's Travel and Broadcasting Rule
The complaint comes as Infantino left the World Cup in the United States to pay his respects to the late ruler of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. He jetted out on a private plane from Miami on Sunday following England's quarter-final win over Norway, arriving on Monday, and is expected to return to the US on Tuesday ahead of the semi-final between France and Spain.
Infantino has been a constant presence at matches, using a private jet provided by Qatar Airways, a FIFA sponsor, to attend two games per day during the group stage. A little-known broadcasting rule ensures his presence is shown on screen: an agreement between FIFA and production house Host Broadcast Service (49% owned by FIFA) mandates a 'dignitary shot' every half to showcase high-ranking officials and VIPs.
Balogun's Reaction
The player at the centre of the furore, USA international Folarin Balogun, discussed the situation on CBS Mornings, acknowledging that Trump's involvement created a distraction. "My initial reaction was that I was happy to be back in the team," he said. "But when I started to reflect, I knew it was going to cause a lot of controversy." He added, "It was confusing because the team was practicing without me in the team, I'm almost just playing a supporting role to keep morale high."
Impact on FIFA Presidential Election
The controversy is likely to strengthen UEFA's position as they seek a candidate to challenge Infantino at the upcoming FIFA presidential election. Infantino is pursuing a third term and had anticipated an uncontested re-election, but momentum is building for alternatives within UEFA, including UEFA president Alexander Ceferin, PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, and Legia owner Dariusz Mioduski. Outside UEFA, Concacaf president Victor Montagliani and Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe have also been suggested as possible candidates.
