Trump Defends FIFA President Infantino Amidst Controversy, Highlighting Longstanding Ties

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino, warning that replacing him would be a "terrible mistake." This statement arrives as Infantino faces internal opposition within FIFA over a controversial proposal to commercialize a stake in World Cup rights.

The project, known as FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), reportedly involved Joshua Kushner, Ivanka Trump's brother-in-law and co-founder of the venture capital firm Thrive Capital. The internal backlash forced Infantino to withdraw the proposal, highlighting a significant internal crisis within the global football governing body.

The public display of support underscores a relationship between Trump and Infantino that has been developing since 2018. Their connection reportedly began during the preparations for the 2026 World Cup bid. Infantino was seen at the White House in August 2018, gifting Trump a personalized jersey and football cards.

Further interactions include meetings at the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires and the Oval Office in September 2019. Trump invited Infantino to speak at the World Economic Forum, and Infantino was a special guest at Trump's second presidential inauguration in January 2025. FIFA also opened an office in Trump Tower in July 2025. Infantino has referred to Trump as a "close friend" and thanked him for his help with World Cup organization. In December 2025, Infantino presented Trump with FIFA's first Peace Award, a decision that drew criticism from human rights NGO FairSquare for potentially compromising FIFA's political impartiality.

During the 2026 World Cup, news emerged of a phone call from Trump to Infantino regarding a potential sanction against U.S. player Folarin Balogun, who had been sent off in a previous match. FIFA regulations typically mandate a suspension for a direct red card.