Football chief Gianni Infantino is facing scrutiny over FIFA’s controversial decision to grant Donald Trump a peace prize, as reported today. An organization based in the UK has lodged a formal complaint against Infantino, urging an investigation into his public endorsements of the US President. The group alleges that bypassing proper procedures would constitute an abuse of power and a violation of neutrality. Infantino drew criticism when Trump was honored at the tumultuous World Cup draw last Friday.
Fairsquare has written to FIFA’s ethics committee, calling for an inquiry into the matter. Several high-ranking FIFA officials disclosed to the Mirror that they were not consulted regarding the new award. The NGO argues that Infantino should have sought the FIFA Council’s approval, as required by FIFA’s regulations, before instituting the prize. The complaint asserts that acting unilaterally would amount to a significant abuse of power.
During the live draw watched by billions worldwide, Infantino expressed unwavering support for Trump, who reciprocated by lauding the award as a significant honor. Fairsquare emphasized concerns over Infantino’s public statements and urged the Ethics Committee to scrutinize the processes leading to the creation of the FIFA Peace Prize and its bestowal upon Trump.
The organization emphasized that awarding such a prize to a current political figure violates FIFA’s obligation to neutrality. The draw in Washington DC, overseen by former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand, revealed England’s opponents for the upcoming tournament. Scotland, on the other hand, is set to face Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil in their group. The tournament is scheduled for June and July, with 104 matches to be played across the US, Mexico, and Canada.
A large influx of supporters is anticipated to travel across the Atlantic to rally behind both the England and Scotland teams headed by Thomas Tuchel and Steve Clarke, respectively. FIFA has been contacted for a response.