Infantino Confirms Trump Call Over Balogun Suspension
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that United States President Donald Trump reached out to him concerning the one‑match suspension imposed on USA forward Folarin Balogun. Infantino made it clear, however, that the matter remains under the authority of FIFA’s independent judicial process.
In his statement, Infantino stressed that FIFA’s judicial bodies operate autonomously, applying the FIFA Disciplinary Code and the facts of each case. He said their independence is essential for protecting the integrity and credibility of the sport.
“I have noted the public comments regarding the decision of FIFA’s independent Disciplinary Committee on the one‑match suspension of Folarin Balogun, and I wish to restate a fundamental principle of FIFA governance,” Infantino said.
“FIFA’s judicial bodies are independent. They operate autonomously, apply the FIFA Disciplinary Code, and render rulings based on applicable regulations and the specific facts before them. Their independence is vital to the credibility and integrity of football, and must always be respected.”
Infantino also acknowledged receiving a call from Trump, describing it as no different from the many conversations he regularly holds with world leaders, government officials, football stakeholders and business executives.
“Yes, I regularly discuss matters related to the FIFA World Cup with the President of the United States. On this specific matter, I did receive a phone call from President Donald Trump, much like the numerous calls I regularly receive from heads of state, government officials, football stakeholders and corporate executives from across the globe on a wide range of different issues,” he said.
“During our conversation, I explained that legal proceedings involving FIFA’s independent judicial bodies are currently underway, and the competent body will deliver a ruling on this case in due course. This is how FIFA’s system functions, and it is a principle I will always uphold.”
The FIFA president added that while he sometimes agrees with disciplinary decisions and sometimes does not, he respects every ruling issued by the organisation’s independent bodies.
“I read the rulings when FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee releases them. Sometimes I am surprised by these decisions, sometimes I agree with them, and sometimes I disagree,” he said.
“Regardless, however, I always respect these decisions and the autonomy of the bodies that issue them. Our personal approval or disapproval of a specific decision is irrelevant. Respect for independent bodies and the rule of law at all times is the bedrock upon which we safeguard the integrity of our competitions and FIFA’s credibility.”
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