Bold claim: a single hat and a handshake are stirring a global debate about neutrality in sports. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) says it will examine whether IOC member Gianni Infantino violated the charter by attending the inaugural meeting of The Board of Peace, an initiative linked to former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Infantino, who also leads FIFA, attended the Washington, D.C. gathering on Thursday. He was flanked by politicians and wore a red “USA” cap bearing the numbers “45-47,” a nod to Trump’s two non-consecutive presidencies.
During the event, Infantino announced what he called a “landmark partnership agreement” between FIFA and The Board of Peace, a group primarily focused on rebuilding Gaza.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry said at a Milan-Cortina Winter Games press conference that she wasn’t aware of Infantino’s central role until journalists brought it to light. She added that the IOC would review the matter, noting that the charter requires members to act independently of political or commercial pressures and not to accept mandates that could interfere with their actions or votes.
Coventry stressed the IOC’s commitment to political neutrality, arguing that neutrality is essential to ensuring fair competition on the field and in governance. “That’s the only way for us as an organization to ensure fairness,” she said, signaling that the IOC would continue to uphold this stance going forward.
Infantino’s public alliance with Trump has grown closer since Trump resumed the presidency in January 2025. In December, Infantino awarded Trump FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize during the World Cup draw in Washington.
Last November, Miguel Maduro, a former FIFA Governance Committee chair, criticized Infantino for what he described as a “clear violation” of FIFA’s neutrality while praising Trump’s political agenda in a Miami speech. In December, FairSquare, a non-profit advocacy group, filed a formal complaint with FIFA’s Ethics Committee alleging multiple breaches of neutrality tied to Infantino’s relationship with Trump, including the Peace Prize decision.
Responses from Trump allies have been heated. Alex Bruesentowitz (sic), an adviser to President Trump, publicly defended Infantino on social media, arguing that Infantino is contributing to global peace and praising him as the best FIFA president.
Beyond politics, FIFA’s development plans in Gaza remain on the table. The federation envisions building 50 mini-pitches near schools and residential areas, five full-size pitches across several districts, a new FIFA academy, and a 20,000-seat national stadium in Gaza, as part of a broader development initiative.
Feb 20, 2026
Connections: Sports Edition – Spot the pattern. Connect the terms. Find the hidden link between sports terms.
