The International Olympic Committee announced Saturday that FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s participation in President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace launch event did not breach Olympic political neutrality standards.
Infantino, who holds dual roles as head of world soccer’s governing organization and IOC member, joined Thursday’s inaugural Board of Peace session in Milan. The gathering brought together Trump and various world leaders to discuss Gaza reconstruction initiatives, with the goal of rebuilding the region following Hamas disarmament.
An IOC representative confirmed the organization had communicated with FIFA regarding the matter. “We understand that FIFA is supporting, through football, a comprehensive sport recovery investment programme in Gaza, Palestine, by providing sporting infrastructure, education and elite development proposals,” the spokesperson stated.
The spokesperson added: “This is entirely in keeping with the role of an International sport federation. The IOC, through Olympic Solidarity, which is our development vehicle, has been and continues to support sport development in the region.”
Olympic Charter regulations require members to operate free from commercial and political influences. The document also prohibits members from accepting “from governments, organisations, or other parties, any mandate or instructions liable to interfere with the freedom of their action and vote.”
Trump’s Board of Peace initiative has drawn criticism for including Israeli representation while excluding Palestinian voices. Concerns have emerged that Trump’s plans to expand the Board’s scope beyond Gaza could potentially diminish the United Nations’ primary role in international diplomacy and conflict mediation.
During the event, Infantino shared the stage with multiple heads of state and wore a red cap featuring “USA” and the numbers 45-47, representing Trump’s two separate presidential terms.
The FIFA leader presented a collaboration agreement with the Board of Peace outlining ambitious Gaza sports development plans. The initiative includes constructing 50 smaller playing fields near educational facilities and neighborhoods, five regulation-size pitches throughout different districts, an advanced FIFA training academy, and a new 20,000-capacity national stadium.
Trump and Infantino have met on multiple occasions, particularly relevant as the United States prepares to co-host this summer’s World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada.
In December, FIFA presented Trump with its first-ever peace award, recognizing his work promoting communication and tension reduction in global conflict zones.
Newly elected IOC President Kirsty Coventry, who took office in 2025, has not yet had a meeting with Trump. Los Angeles is scheduled to host the 2028 Summer Olympics.
