FIFA Boss Infantino Cleared of Neutrality Breach by IOC

The International Olympic Committee, IOC, has dismissed a complaint filed against the President of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, FIFA, Gianni Infantino. The complaint, which was lodged by a human rights non-governmental organization, FairSquare, accused Infantino of violating the IOC's rules on political neutrality. According to the complaint, Infantino was said to have repeatedly breached these rules by offering his support to the President of the United States, Donald Trump. However, after a thorough analysis of the complaint, the IOC Ethics Commission ruled that it lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the matter. This decision was based on the fact that each international federation, including FIFA, is independent and autonomous in its governance, as stated in the Olympic Charter. The IOC had previously addressed a controversy surrounding Infantino's attendance at a meeting convened by Trump, where he wore a cap with the inscription 'USA' and '45-47', referencing Trump's two presidential terms. In a statement, the IOC noted that FIFA's actions, including its support for a sports recovery investment program in Gaza, Palestine, were in line with the role of an international sports federation. The IOC also stated that it had been in contact with FIFA and understood that the organization was providing sporting infrastructure, education, and elite development proposals in the region. Furthermore, FIFA had awarded Trump its inaugural peace prize, with Infantino praising Trump's 'exceptional and extraordinary' actions to promote peace and unity worldwide. During the World Cup in North America, Trump had also publicly discussed a phone call with Infantino before FIFA lifted a suspension imposed on US striker Folarin Balogun following a red card. The IOC's decision to reject the complaint against Infantino has brought an end to the matter, with the FIFA president cleared of any breaches of the IOC's rules on political neutrality.