The International Olympic Committee has ruled that FIFA President Gianni Infantino did not violate political neutrality rules by attending U.S. President Donald Trump's inaugural Board of Peace meeting. The event focused on Gaza reconstruction through sports infrastructure, with FIFA committing $75 million to the initiative. IOC officials emphasized that the participation aligns with the role of international sports federations.
On Saturday, February 21, 2026, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that FIFA President Gianni Infantino's involvement in President Donald Trump's Board of Peace launch did not breach Olympic Charter provisions on political neutrality. The meeting occurred on Thursday, February 20, 2026, in Washington, D.C., bringing together world leaders to discuss Gaza's rebuilding after Hamas's disarmament, with a focus on sports development.
Infantino, who also serves as an IOC member, presented a collaboration agreement outlining FIFA's $75 million investment in Gaza's sports facilities. The plans include constructing 50 mini football fields near schools and neighborhoods for $2.5 million, five full-size pitches across districts for $5 million, a $15 million FIFA Academy, and a $50 million national stadium with 20,000 to 25,000 seats. "We don’t have to just rebuild houses or schools or hospitals or roads," Infantino stated. "We also have to rebuild and build people, emotion, hope and trust. And this is what football, my sport, is about."
An IOC spokesperson explained, "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. This is entirely in keeping with the role of an International Sport Federation." The IOC, via its Olympic Solidarity program, continues to support regional sports development.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry initially indicated on Friday that the body would investigate Infantino's conduct, as she was unaware of his prominent role at the event. However, the IOC later confirmed no action would be taken, citing alignment with federation duties. The Olympic Charter requires members to act free from political influences.
Infantino appeared on stage wearing a red cap marked "USA" and the numbers 45-47, referencing Trump's presidencies. This follows FIFA awarding Trump its inaugural peace prize in December 2025. The U.S. co-hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Mexico and Canada, amid prior meetings between Infantino and Trump.
Criticism has arisen over the board's inclusion of Israeli representatives without Palestinian voices, potentially affecting UN mediation roles. Sources report the event's humanitarian focus, though some highlight risks of sports politicization.
