Football chief Gianni Infantino is facing an official investigation over FIFA’s controversial decision to grant a peace prize to Donald Trump, as reported today. A UK-based human rights group has filed a formal complaint against Infantino, urging scrutiny into his public endorsements of the US President. The group emphasized that failure to follow proper procedures would constitute an “abuse of power” and a violation of neutrality. The incident occurred during the World Cup draw, where Trump was unexpectedly honored.
Fairsquare has written to FIFA’s ethics committee, requesting an inquiry into the matter. According to senior FIFA sources, there was no prior consultation regarding the new award. The NGO argued that Infantino should have consulted the FIFA Council before instituting the prize, highlighting a potential unilateral action as a severe abuse of power.
During the live draw witnessed by a billion viewers worldwide, Infantino publicly expressed his support for Trump, who reciprocated by acknowledging the honor bestowed upon him. Fairsquare’s complaint primarily focuses on four of Infantino’s public statements, urging the Ethics Committee to assess the creation and awarding of the FIFA Peace Prize in line with FIFA’s procedural rules.
The organization emphasized the need for an investigation into both Infantino’s statements supporting Trump and his involvement in the internal processes leading to the prize’s establishment and bestowal on December 5, 2025. Critically, awarding such a prize to a current political leader is deemed a breach of FIFA’s obligation to remain neutral.
Elsewhere, the World Cup draw in Washington DC, hosted 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, featuring a total of 104 matches across the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Anticipating significant support, thousands of fans are expected to travel across the Atlantic to back both the England and Scotland teams led by Thomas Tuchel and Steve Clarke, respectively. FIFA has been contacted for comment on the ongoing developments.