(FILES) FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks during the welcome session of the 74th FIFA Congress in Bangkok on May 17, 2024. FIFA called for "peace" in Gaza on October 2, 2025, but "it cannot resolve geopolitical problems," according to its president, Gianni Infantino, who refrained from responding to growing calls to suspend the Israeli FA. Referring to "the ongoing situation in Gaza" at the opening of the closed-door meeting of the body's council, the Italian-Swiss leader said that "the power of football" was to "unite people in a divided world," offering "a message of peace and unity." (Photo by Manan VATSYAYANA / AFP)
European Parliament Calls for FIFA Probe into Folarin Balogun Ban Decision
Over 70 members of the European Parliament have urged FIFA to investigate its president, Gianni Infantino, alleging a breach of the organisation’s principle of political neutrality. The call follows FIFA’s decision to overturn a one‑match suspension for United States forward Folarin Balogun before the USA’s World Cup last‑16 encounter with Belgium.
Balogun had received a straight red card in the USA’s victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, which would have ruled him out of the knockout match. FIFA, however, lifted the ban shortly before the game. Then‑US President Donald Trump described the sending‑off as “a great injustice” and said he had asked Infantino to review the case.
Belgium lodged an objection prior to the match, but FIFA dismissed the appeal. The decision had little effect on the result, as Belgium secured a 4‑1 victory to eliminate the tournament co‑hosts.
Despite the American exit, scrutiny over FIFA’s handling of the disciplinary case has continued to grow. In response, Infantino insisted that FIFA’s judicial bodies remain independent, applying the Disciplinary Code without political influence.
He noted that during his conversation with President Trump he clarified that the matter was under review by FIFA’s independent judicial organs and would be settled according to the established process.
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