The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has been asked to investigate FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s role in the reversal of a one-game ban for US striker Folarin Balogun. The complaint, filed by nonprofit organization FairSquare, alleges that Infantino breached rules on political neutrality in his support of President Donald Trump.
Background
Balogun was initially suspended for a game after receiving a direct red card in a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, the suspension was later lifted, allowing him to play in a round of 16 match against Belgium. Trump had publicly lobbied for Balogun to play, and Infantino acknowledged receiving a call from the President.
Infantino has denied interfering with the decision-making process, stating that FIFA’s judicial committees act autonomously. However, FairSquare’s complaint questions the credibility and integrity of Infantino, who is also an IOC member.
The complaint cites several instances of Infantino’s alleged breaches of IOC rules on political neutrality, including his promotion of a FIFA fan site linked to Trump and his supportive post on Instagram after attending an event linked to Trump’s presidential inauguration.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
