By Trendsetter Tribune 
MILAN — FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been officially cleared of wrongdoing by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) following a swift investigation into his high-profile ties with President Donald Trump. As of Sunday, February 22, 2026, the IOC’s Ethics Commission ruled that Infantino’s recent participation in the administration’s “Board of Peace” launch in Washington, D.C., did not violate the Olympic Charter’s requirements for political neutrality.
The investigation was triggered just days ago after Infantino appeared “front and center” alongside the President, sporting a red “45-47” cap and signing a multimillion-dollar partnership to rebuild sports infrastructure in Gaza.
The Verdict: “Consistent with the Mission”
IOC President Kirsty Coventry confirmed the verdict on Sunday, stating that the committee’s review focused on whether Infantino had accepted political “mandates” that interfered with his independence.
- The Ruling: The IOC found that the partnership between FIFA and the Board of Peace constitutes a legitimate “sport recovery investment program.”
- The Justification: An IOC spokesperson noted that supporting infrastructure and education in post-conflict areas like Gaza is “entirely in keeping with the role of an International Sport Federation.”
- The Collaboration: FIFA has pledged to raise $75 million for the project, which includes 50 mini-pitches, five full-size pitches, and a new 20,000-seat national stadium in Gaza.
The Controversy: The “45-47” Hat and the Peace Prize
While the IOC has cleared Infantino, the “optics” of the relationship continue to draw intense scrutiny from European football leaders and human rights groups.
| Event | Details of the Infantino-Trump Alliance |
| The “45-47” Hat | Infantino was photographed wearing a red cap gifted by the President during the Board of Peace meeting on Feb 19. Critics called it a “blatant endorsement.” |
| The FIFA Peace Prize | In December 2025, Infantino created a new award and presented the inaugural trophy to President Trump during the World Cup Final Draw. |
| The “FairSquare” Complaint | The activist group FairSquare filed a formal complaint with the FIFA Ethics Committee, alleging Infantino “unilaterally dictated” the organization’s values to align with Trump’s agenda. |
| UEFA Walkout | During the 75th FIFA Congress in May 2025, UEFA leaders reportedly walked out in protest after Infantino arrived late due to a private meeting with the U.S. President. |
The World Cup “Taskforce”
The close bond is particularly significant as the U.S. prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
- Trump Towers HQ: The World Cup “Taskforce” is currently headquartered in Trump Towers in Manhattan, a move that Infantino has defended as a logistical necessity for the “largest sporting event in human history.”
- The $50B Boost: Infantino has estimated the tournament will provide a $50 billion boost to the American economy, creating nearly 300,000 jobs—a figure frequently cited by the administration to justify its close involvement in the tournament’s planning.
A Defiant Stance
Despite the backlash, Infantino has remained steadfast in his defense of the alliance. In a statement released Sunday afternoon, he emphasized that “football brings people together” and that FIFA would work with any leader who shares the goal of “prosperous and peaceful” development through sport.
“Together with the support of the Board of Peace, FIFA will drive this partnership which is built to deliver impact at every stage. We do not have to rebuild houses or schools… we have to build people, emotion, hope, and trust.” — Gianni Infantino, Feb 22, 2026