Key facts
- EU lawmakers are demanding an investigation into FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
- The demand follows a call from U.S. President Donald Trump to Infantino regarding a red card suspension.
- FIFA lifted the suspension for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun after Trump's call.
- A rights group, FairSquare, plans to file a complaint with the International Olympic Committee against Infantino for alleged breaches of political neutrality.
- Infantino is an IOC member and has previously been subject to a complaint by FairSquare to FIFA's Ethics Committee.
European lawmakers are demanding an investigation into FIFA President Gianni Infantino, alleging he breached political neutrality rules after a call from U.S. President Donald Trump led to the reversal of a red card suspension for American striker Folarin Balogun. Seventy-two members of the European Parliament signed a letter urging national football federations within the EU to support an inquiry into Infantino.
Separately, the human rights group FairSquare announced plans to file a complaint with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) against Infantino, citing repeated breaches of political neutrality rules through his support for Trump. FairSquare had previously filed a complaint with FIFA's Ethics Committee in December 2025, requesting an investigation into Infantino's role in introducing and awarding a FIFA Peace Prize to Trump, and whether these processes complied with FIFA's rules.
FairSquare argues that Infantino's actions violate Article 15 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, which mandates political neutrality. Breaches can result in fines and bans. IOC President Kirsty Coventry indicated that the IOC would review any complaint received. While FIFA's Ethics Committee acknowledged FairSquare's complaint, the organization has not indicated if an investigation has commenced. Infantino has denied influencing the decision regarding Balogun's suspension.