The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that it will not pursue an investigation into Gianni Infantino after a call from former President Donald Trump regarding Folarin Balogun’s red card in the World Cup.

Balogun, a USMNT star, received a red card during the World Cup’s round of 32, initially rendering him ineligible for the subsequent match. However, FIFA overturned the decision, allowing Balogun to play. Trump claimed he requested a review of the decision, yet FIFA indicated that Trump’s intervention did not affect their ruling.

President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino showcased the FIFA World Cup winner’s trophy before presenting it to Spain captain Rodri at the ceremony following the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J. (Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

The situation stirred a significant controversy because some argued the red card was undeserved initially. Although an appeal from Belgium was strong, Balogun participated in the match. This month, a London-based NGO complained to the IOC ethics commission about Infantino. The IOC Charter emphasizes neutrality as a core principle, which applies to FIFA and its members, including Infantino since 2020.

The IOC explained that they would not launch a formal investigation as the complaint by FairSquare involved FIFA’s governance decisions and interactions with government entities, rather than specific ties with the Olympic body.

The complaint “refers only to (FIFA’s) decisions on its governance and its management, including its relations with government, and to (FIFA’s) implementation of the rules of its sport,” the IOC mentioned in a statement.

Trump explained, “I asked for a review because I didn’t think it was a foul. I thought it was two athletes who collided and got tangled. It wasn’t physical like a punch, and not allowing a top player to play would have left a mark on the event.”

Despite Balogun’s participation, the U.S. team lost 4-1 to Belgium.

President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final with Infantino at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J., July 13, 2025. (Etsuo Hara/Getty Images)