EU lawmakers want Gianni Infantino investigated over Trump contact

BRUSSELS — A group of European lawmakers is rallying support for an investigation into FIFA President Gianni Infantino due to his controversial decision regarding U.S. striker Folarin Balogun. This inquiry arises from Balogun’s red card incident during the U.S. victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina on July 1, which typically sidelines a player for their next match. However, FIFA recently lifted his suspension, allegedly influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Infantino’s decision to allow Balogun to play has drawn sharp criticism. Lawmakers Barry Andrews, Lara Wolters, and Niels Fuglsang publicly denounced this action, calling the change in red card rulings during a tournament “a disgrace and a perversion of justice.” Their statement emphasized a growing concern over FIFA’s alleged capitulation to political pressure.

Political Influence in Sports

The lawmakers have urged the national football associations of EU countries to prompt an investigation by the FIFA Ethics Committee into whether Trump’s influence contributed to lifting Balogun’s suspension. They are also examining potential violations of political neutrality, referencing Trump’s awarding of the FIFA Peace Prize.

As of now, the letter requesting the investigation has garnered signatures from 35 fellow lawmakers. The group argues that the integrity of sports relies on impartial and transparent regulations. They expressed concern that allowing political factors to dictate who plays undermines the fundamental fairness inherent in sports.

FIFA, for its part, has clarified that the decision to lift Balogun’s suspension was made by its disciplinary committee, not directly affected by external influences. The controversy continues as supporters and critics debate the ramifications of political interference in football, especially with the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon.