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US President Donald Trump backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Tuesday amidst growing controversy surrounding the soccer executive.
Infantino faces mounting scrutiny over allegations of an improper workplace affair alongside sharp criticism regarding a failed private investment scheme.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump praised the Italian-Swiss lawyer as “fantastic” and warned that FIFA would make a terrible mistake if the governing body considered replacing him ahead of his planned reelection bid next March.
Infantino maintains his innocence and denies all charges of misconduct.
The public defence comes during a crucial period of collaboration between the Trump administration and FIFA.
Infantino has led world soccer’s governing body since 2016, working closely with US officials to prepare for the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted jointly across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Their working relationship previously deepened through high-profile events, including joint appearances during planning summits and global promotional tours.
Infantino now seeks a fourth consecutive term at the head of FIFA, but the recent personal and financial allegations threaten to disrupt his campaign and split support among member associations ahead of the upcoming vote.
Other football organisations, including the Confederation of African Football and South American governing body CONMEBOL, share Trump’s position in supporting Infantino.
