Summary
FIFA President Gianni Infantino is accused of breaking FIFA's political neutrality rules by giving President Donald Trump the first FIFA Peace Prize. A human rights group, FairSquare, has asked FIFA's Ethics Committee to investigate whether Infantino's actions violate the rules that require FIFA to stay politically neutral. The Ethics Committee will now look into the accusation to decide if a formal investigation should take place.
Key Facts
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino gave President Trump the first FIFA Peace Prize at an event in Washington, D.C.
- The human rights group FairSquare claims this act conflicts with FIFA's rules that prohibit getting involved in political matters.
- FairSquare has requested an investigation by FIFA's Ethics Committee.
- Infantino praised Trump and called him a "really close friend" during the prize ceremony.
- The prize was also praised for Trump's role in a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia.
- Critics argue the prize process did not include the FIFA Council, which should have been part of the decision.
- FIFA's Ethics Committee will decide if a formal investigation into Infantino's actions is needed.
- If found guilty, Infantino could face a two-year ban from soccer activities.
