IOC throws out political neutrality complaint against FIFA boss Infantino

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has dismissed a complaint lodged by human rights organisation FairSquare against FIFA President Gianni Infantino over alleged violations of the Olympic body’s political neutrality rules.

An IOC spokesperson confirmed to AFP on Friday that the complaint was rejected.

FairSquare had accused Infantino of repeatedly violating the IOC’s political neutrality guidelines by publicly showing political support for U.S. President Donald Trump.

The NGO argued that such actions were inconsistent with the standards expected of leaders within the Olympic movement.

Despite the allegations, the IOC decided not to pursue the complaint, effectively closing the matter.

“The IOC Ethics Commission thoroughly analysed the complaint by FairSquare,” the spokesperson told AFP.

“The commission noticed that, pursuant to the Olympic Charter, each International Federation (IF) maintains its independence and autonomy in its governance.

“The complaint falls outside the IOC Ethics Commission’s jurisdiction”.

The oath taken by the Olympic body’s roughly one hundred members  including Infantino  requires them to act “independently of commercial and political interests,” an obligation also enshrined in the Olympic Charter.

In February, the IOC also dismissed an earlier controversy regarding Infantino’s attendance at the first meeting of the Board of Peace convened by Trump, where he wore a red cap emblazoned with “USA” and “45-47” — a reference to Trump’s two terms in office.

“The IOC has been in contact with FIFA,” an IOC spokesperson told AFP in February.

“We understand that FIFA is supporting, through football, a comprehensive sport recovery investment programme in Gaza, Palestine, by providing sporting infrastructure, education and elite development proposals.

“This is entirely in keeping with the role of an International Sport Federation. The IOC, through Olympic Solidarity, which is our development vehicle, has been and continues to support sport development in the region.”

FIFA awarded Trump its inaugural peace prize in December, with Infantino saying at the time it was in recognition of the US president’s “exceptional and extraordinary” actions to promote peace and unity around the world.

During the World Cup in North America, Trump boasted of calling Infantino before FIFA lifted the suspension imposed on US striker Folarin Balogun following a red card.

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