U.S. Soccer Federation vice president Nathán Goldberg Crenier has launched a sharp critique of FIFA president Gianni Infantino, accusing the Swiss‑born administrator of allowing personal political ties to dictate the governance of world soccer.
The criticism centers on Infantino’s reported phone call with former U.S. president Donald Trump, in which the two discussed the disciplinary case of USMNT forward Folarin Balogun, whose red card was controversially suspended by a FIFA disciplinary chair acting without council approval.
Crenier argues that the episode exemplifies a broader pattern in which Infantino’s leadership appears to prioritize political optics over sporting fairness, a stance that has already drawn condemnation from UEFA, which warned that private political interests are being placed above the sport’s best interests.
The Peace Prize Controversy
Adding to the controversy, Infantino unilaterally awarded Donald Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, a move that bypassed the FIFA Council and sparked protests from several council members who were never consulted about the creation or presentation of the honor.
The decision to suspend Balogun’s red card, made by disciplinary chair Mohammad al‑Kamali on his own authority, further fueled accusations that Infantino is willing to rewrite the rules whenever convenient, a practice that Crenier says undermines the integrity of competitions worldwide.
Beyond the immediate dispute, Crenier voiced concern that Trump could be called upon to present the World Cup trophy at the 2026 tournament, a scenario he views as a dangerous politicization of a global sporting event.
The fallout has already prompted UEFA to explore options for replacing Infantino, signaling that the governance crisis may lead to a shake‑up at the highest levels of football administration.