The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has determined that FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s participation in a recent Peace Council meeting does not violate the organization’s political neutrality policy. This conclusion was reported by an IOC spokesperson, as cited by Reuters.
Infantino spoke at the inaugural session of the Peace Council alongside U.S. President Donald Trump, where they discussed the reconstruction of Gaza following the disarmament of Hamas. During the event, Infantino wore a cap emblazoned with “USA” and presented a collaboration agreement between FIFA and the Peace Council. According to ESPN, this agreement includes a commitment from FIFA to invest $75 million in Gaza, aimed at developing sports infrastructure.
The agreement specifies the construction of 50 mini-pitches near schools and residential areas in Gaza, five full-sized pitches in various locations, a modern FIFA academy, and a new national stadium with a capacity of 20,000 seats.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry faced inquiries regarding potential violations of political neutrality by Infantino, prompting the committee to conduct an investigation. Ultimately, the IOC concluded that Infantino’s remarks did not contravene any provisions of the Olympic Charter related to political neutrality.
The IOC has stated that it will not take any action against Infantino, who is also a member of the committee. The matter has been deemed closed, as FIFA’s initiatives in Gaza align with the responsibilities of an international sports federation.
“The IOC is in contact with FIFA, and we understand that the organization is supporting a comprehensive investment program for the recovery of sports in Gaza, providing sports infrastructure, education, and elite sports development opportunities. This is entirely consistent with the role of an international sports federation. Through Olympic solidarity, the IOC supports sports development in the region,” said the IOC spokesperson, as reported by Reuters.
Previously, Infantino faced criticism for allegedly breaching FIFA’s internal rules after awarding President Trump the “Peace Prize” prior to the draw for the 2026 World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
In a separate incident, Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladislav Geraskevich was disqualified from the Olympics after expressing his intention to compete at the 2026 Games while wearing a helmet honoring deceased Ukrainian athletes killed during the ongoing conflict. The IOC cited Rule 50, which prohibits any form of political, religious, or ethnic demonstrations.
Geraskevich contended that the IOC failed to provide a valid rationale for his disqualification during the appeal process at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which ultimately rejected his case. The athlete now has 30 days to decide on further legal actions.
The IOC has ruled that Gianni Infantino's recent remarks at a Peace Council meeting do not breach political neutrality rules, while FIFA's investment plans in Gaza are supported. Meanwhile, Ukrainian athlete Vladislav Geraskevich faces disqualification over his political helmet tribute.
Source: Reuters