The International Olympic Committee has dismissed a formal grievance lodged by the human rights organization FairSquare against FIFA leader Gianni Infantino. The group claimed that Infantino violated regulations concerning political neutrality by publicly endorsing United States President Donald Trump.
An IOC representative informed AFP on Friday that the Ethics Commission completed a detailed review of the matter. The commission concluded that it lacks the authority to address these allegations, noting that under the Olympic Charter, international sports federations possess the right to govern themselves independently. While Olympic members are mandated to remain free from political or commercial influence, the committee determined this specific dispute is outside its regulatory oversight.
Earlier this year, the IOC also cleared Infantino of concerns following his appearance at a Trump-hosted event, where he wore a cap highlighting the president’s political terms. At that time, the committee clarified that FIFA’s focus on sporting infrastructure and development in Gaza aligns with the responsibilities of an international sports body. FIFA previously honored Donald Trump with a peace prize for his purported efforts to foster global unity, and the former president has previously claimed direct communication with Infantino regarding disciplinary actions against player Folarin Balogun.
