IOC Decision on Gianni Infantino and Trump’s Call Over Balogun’s Red Card

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has decided not to investigate Gianni Infantino concerning President Donald Trump’s call about Folarin Balogun’s controversial red card.

Balogun, a star player for the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT), received a red card during the World Cup round of 32. Initially, this made him ineligible for the next round, but FIFA later suspended the red card, allowing his participation. President Trump disclosed his call to FIFA President Infantino urging a review, although FIFA stated Trump’s influence did not affect their decision.

An image from the award ceremony shows Trump and Infantino holding the FIFA World Cup trophy before passing it to Spain’s captain Rodri after the 2026 final between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium. This decision, which many argued unfairly penalized Balogun, sparked controversy, especially from Belgium.

This month, a London-based NGO lodged a formal complaint to the IOC ethics commission about Infantino. They highlighted the Olympic Charter’s principle of neutrality, which FIFA and its members must uphold. However, the IOC reported that this complaint did not relate directly to FIFA’s interactions with the Olympic body.

The IOC’s statement clarified the complaint focused on FIFA’s governance and management, specifically its dealings with governments and the enforcement of its sport’s rules. Therefore, it falls outside the scope of the IOC ethics commission. Trump defended his involvement, explaining his request for a review was due to his belief there was no foul play. He depicted the incident as a collision between two competitive athletes, rather than a deliberate act of violence.

Trump underscored the importance of allowing top players to participate for the integrity of the game. The understanding was that a committee, not Infantino solely, decided on the matter, based on the rule interpretation that no actual foul occurred. Despite Balogun’s activation, the U.S. faced a heavy 4-1 defeat against Belgium.

President Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final at MetLife Stadium alongside First Lady Melania Trump and Infantino prior to their participation in the FIFA World Cup events.