Infantino Defends FIFA's Independence Over Balogun Ban

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has firmly defended the independence of FIFA's judicial system following public debate surrounding the suspension of United States forward Folarin Balogun.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino:

“I have seen the public comments regarding the decision of the independent FIFA Disciplinary Committee related to the suspension of Folarin Balogun, and I would like to reiterate a fundamental principle of FIFA’s governance.

“FIFA’s judicial… pic.twitter.com/FzeWuMQIXf

— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) July 6, 2026

In a detailed statement, Infantino emphasized that FIFA's disciplinary and judicial bodies operate independently and make decisions based solely on the FIFA Disciplinary Code and the facts presented in each case.

Also Read:Trump Hails FIFA Review in Balogun Red Card Case

"Their independence is essential to the credibility and integrity of football, and this must always be respected," Infantino said.
The FIFA President also confirmed that he received a phone call from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Balogun's disciplinary case. However, he stressed that he informed Trump the matter was already before FIFA's independent judicial bodies and would be decided through the established legal process.

"I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies. That is how FIFA's system works, and it is a principle that I will always uphold," he stated.
Infantino noted that, like anyone else, he does not always agree with every disciplinary ruling issued by FIFA.

"I read the decisions of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee when they are issued. Sometimes I am surprised by them. Sometimes I agree with them, and sometimes I disagree," he said.

Despite personal opinions, Infantino reiterated that respecting the autonomy of FIFA's judicial institutions is vital to maintaining the integrity and credibility of international football.

"Whether we personally like a decision or not is irrelevant. Respect for independent institutions and the rule of law is what protects the integrity of our competitions and the credibility of FIFA at all times," he concluded.