Infantino Defends FIFA Judicial Independence

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended the independence of FIFA's judicial bodies amid criticism regarding the sudden decision to reinstate U.S. striker Folarin Balogun for Monday's World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium. "FIFA's judicial bodies are independent," Infantino stated. "They operate autonomously, apply the FIFA Disciplinary Code, and decide cases based on the applicable regulations and the specific facts before them." cat-cross.com

Infantino confirmed he received a call from President Trump regarding the matter, explaining that he informed the president that the case would be decided by FIFA's independent judicial bodies. "Their independence is essential to the credibility and integrity of football, and this must always be respected," Infantino added.