FIFA president Gianni Infantino is under pressure after 72 members of the European Parliament called for an investigation into his role in the suspension case involving United States striker Folarin Balogun.
The lawmakers questioned the decision to allow Balogun to avoid serving a World Cup suspension. They believe the process deserves closer scrutiny.
EU lawmakers demand answers
The group has written to the heads of the 27 European Union football associations. They urged the associations to seek a formal investigation into how FIFA handled the case.
According to the lawmakers, the associations have the right to request an inquiry because they are FIFA member bodies.
They also pointed to FIFA’s statutes and code of ethics. They argued that those rules provide a clear basis for an independent review.
White House link fuels controversy
Meanwhile, the controversy grew after reports claimed that United States President Donald Trump personally contacted Infantino over Balogun’s suspension.
As a result, critics questioned whether outside influence affected FIFA’s disciplinary process. They warned that such actions could damage the organization’s credibility.
FIFA yet to comment
So far, FIFA has not responded publicly to the lawmakers’ request. The governing body has also not addressed the reports surrounding Balogun’s suspension.
However, the issue continues to attract attention across Europe. Many lawmakers now want greater transparency and accountability in FIFA’s decision-making process.
