IOC Declines to Investigate FIFA President Over Trump Call

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Friday its decision not to pursue an investigation into FIFA President Gianni Infantino following a call from former President Donald Trump. The call concerned the controversial red card issued to USMNT player Folarin Balogun during the World Cup round of 32 match, which initially rendered him ineligible for the subsequent round.

FIFA ultimately overturned the red card, allowing Balogun to play. Trump later claimed he contacted Infantino to request a review, but FIFA stated that Trump’s call had no influence on the decision.

The controversy intensified as many argued Balogun never deserved the red card. Despite the successful appeal, Balogun’s participation did not prevent the U.S. team from losing to Belgium with a score of 4-1.

A London-based NGO, FairSquare, lodged a formal complaint with the IOC ethics commission, citing a breach of the Olympic Charter’s principles of neutrality by Infantino.

However, the IOC clarified that the complaint, which focused on FIFA’s governance and its management of government relations, did not pertain directly to the IOC. Consequently, no formal investigation would be conducted.

Trump defended his actions, indicating he simply asked for a review as he believed the incident was a clash of athletes rather than a foul. He emphasized he did not instruct Infantino’s decision, attributing it instead to a committee.

The heated debate over Balogun’s eligibility and the role of top athletes in sports continues to evoke strong opinions and reactions.