Gianni Infantino Defends FIFA’s Judicial Independence Amid Balogun Ban Controversy

Gianni Infantino has defended FIFA’s judicial process following growing criticism over the decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s automatic one-match ban, insisting that the organisation’s judicial bodies operate independently and without outside influence.

In a statement released amid the ongoing controversy, the FIFA President stressed that the credibility of world football depends on the independence of its disciplinary institutions.

“The judicial bodies of FIFA are independent. Their independence is essential to the credibility and integrity of football, and it must always be respected,” Infantino said.

Gianni Infantino FIFA statement follows strong criticism from UEFA, which described FIFA’s decision to suspend Balogun’s automatic ban as a move that crossed “a red line” and warned it could damage the integrity and consistency of football’s disciplinary system.

The decision attracted criticism after reports claimed that United States President Donald Trump had personally contacted Infantino to request a review of the striker’s punishment.

Addressing those reports, Infantino confirmed receiving a phone call from President Trump but maintained that the judicial process remained independent.

“Yes, I regularly speak with the President of the United States about World Cup matters, and I did receive a call from President Donald Trump.”

“During our conversation, I explained that an official judicial process involving FIFA’s independent judicial bodies was underway, and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent authorities.”

“That is how FIFA’s system works, and it is a principle I will always defend,” he added.

Infantino also explained that, although he reads decisions issued by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, he does not interfere with its work.

“I read the decisions of FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee when they are published. Sometimes they surprise me. Sometimes I agree with them, and sometimes I disagree.”

“What I always do, however, is respect those decisions and the independence of the bodies that make them,” he said.