Rights Group Files Formal Complaint Against Infantino Over Neutrality Breach

Human rights organization FairSquare announced plans to file a formal complaint with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) against FIFA President Gianni Infantino, citing an alleged breach of political neutrality rules. This action, disclosed on July 9, 2026, follows Infantino’s public support for United States President Donald Trump and the controversial awarding of a FIFA Peace Prize to the American leader during the 2026 World Cup draw.

Infantino’s Conduct Under Scrutiny

The complaint centers on Article 15 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, which mandates political neutrality for officials. FairSquare contends that Infantino’s actions, including the potential unilateral creation of the Peace Prize, its presentation to Trump, and his alleged intervention in the disciplinary case of U.S.

striker Folarin Balogun, constitute an abuse of power. Violations of these statutes can result in penalties ranging from a minimum fine of 10,000 Swiss francs to a two-year ban from football-related activities.

IOC Review and Unanswered Questions

While the IOC has not yet received the formal filing, President Kirsty Coventry confirmed the body would review the matter if submitted. FairSquare previously lodged a complaint with FIFA’s internal ethics committee in December 2025, but reports no progress on an investigation. The campaign has garnered support from 50 members of the European Parliament and the Norwegian Football Federation, increasing pressure regarding the governance of football's global governing body.

Pressure Mounts on FIFA Ethics

The dispute has escalated beyond FIFA’s internal processes, with FairSquare suggesting that Infantino’s unilateral decisions, if proven, would represent an egregious abuse of power. The human rights group has launched a public campaign, "Reboot," advocating for serious reforms within FIFA. The absence of an active investigation by FIFA's ethics committee, despite the initial complaint, has fueled further calls for accountability from external bodies like the IOC.