FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing growing scrutiny after 72 members of the European Parliament called for an independent investigation into the governing body’s handling of the controversial decision that cleared United States striker Folarin Balogun to continue playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The lawmakers questioned whether political influence played a role after reports claimed United States President Donald Trump intervened before FIFA suspended Balogun’s automatic one-match ban.
The News Chronicle reports that the legislators have asked all 27 European football groups to demand a thorough examination of FIFA’s decision-making process, as the action raises questions about the organization’s commitment to justice and political neutrality.
Infantino has dismissed claims of outside interference, arguing that FIFA’s judicial bodies operate independently and that any decision adheres to accepted disciplinary rules.
Additionally, UEFA criticized the decision, which cautioned that it might undermine the reputation of the World Cup by producing erratic standards for future disciplinary actions.
