The 2026 FIFA World Cup proved to be controversial. The United States served as a host nation, along with Canada and Mexico, but it was the only country where its President, Donald Trump, got involved in the goings-on on the pitch.
Trump stepped in to help get USMNT star Folarin Balogun’s suspension postponed after the goal scorer was assessed a red card, resulting in him being deemed eligible for the U.S.’s next match against Belgium. Many people pointed to Trump’s relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who lobbied for Trump to receive the Nobel Peace Prize and gave him the newly established FIFA Peace Prize, as a reason why Balogun’s suspension was overturned.
Even after the World Cup, Trump’s connection to Infantino has led to controversy. In late July, The Times‘ Martyn Ziegler reported on a damning “scheme” involving Infantino and people with close ties to the Trump administration.
“EXCLUSIVE: Fifa’s president Gianni Infantino is planning to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors under a scheme that could potentially earn him tens of millions of pounds. Investor discussions held with figures close to the Trump administration, say sources,” Ziegler reported.
“FIFA has now confirmed to The Times this Infantino plan is under discussion with Josh Kushner as proposed lead investor.”
Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, who serves in the Trump administration as the United States Special Envoy for Peace Missions and is married to the president’s daughter, Ivanka. Fans and soccer federations alike were outraged by what they felt was the “corrupt Trump family” infiltrating football.
Criminal Proceedings?
On Thursday, Sky News’ Rob Harris reported on just how outraged UEFA, the European football federation, still is by Infantino’s now-scrapped plans.
“BREAKING: UEFA is preparing to bring criminal proceedings against FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Switzerland over the attempt to sell shares in the World Cup to private investors,” Harris posted on X.
BREAKING: UEFA is preparing to bring criminal proceedings against FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Switzerland over the attempt to sell shares in the World Cup to private investors
— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) August 27, 2026
If Infantino does face legal repercussions, he can rest somewhat easier knowing that Trump has made it clear he’ll have his full support.
“Gianni helped us a lot to deliver the best World Cup ever. The president likes him a lot. I am sure the president will do everything possible to help him,” a senior official in Trump’s administration told The Telegraph, adding, “He is a loyal person.”
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.