Infantino Confirms Trump Called Over Balogun Suspension

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that United States President Donald Trump contacted him over the one-match suspension handed to the USA forward Folarin Balogun, but insisted the case remains in the hands of the governing body’s independent judicial process.

In a statement, Infantino stressed that FIFA’s judicial bodies operate independently and make decisions based on the FIFA Disciplinary Code and the facts of each case. He said their autonomy is essential to protecting the integrity and credibility of the game.

“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 on cases 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, saying it was no different from the many conversations he regularly has 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.”