Ex-FIFA exec accuses President Gianni Infantino of violating political neutrality rule by praising Trump

"The final part of his statement does more than recognize the legitimacy of President Trump. It endorses his political program and actions and argues others should support them too. He is taking a position in what is an internal political debate in the U.S," Maduro said.

"While he can recognize the legitimacy of President Trump, he should also recognize that, in a democracy, others can oppose his policies. To remain politically neutral requires not to take a position on that political debate, much less to argue that all should support President Trump's policies. To do so appears a clear violation of the duty of political neutrality imposed on any FIFA official by Article 15 of its Code of Ethics."

The official FIFA Code of Ethics states the following about political neutrality:

"In dealings with government institutions, national and international organizations, associations and groupings, persons bound by this Code shall, in addition to observing the basic rules of art, remain politically neutral, in accordance with the principles and objectives of FIFA, the confederations, associations, leagues and clubs, and generally act in a manner compatible with their function and integrity.

"Violation of this article shall be sanctioned with an appropriate fine of at least CHF 10,000 as well as a ban on taking part in any football-related activity for a maximum of two years."

However, that section is in Article 14, and not Article 15 that Maduro mentioned.

Fox News Digital has reached out to FIFA and the White House for a response. FIFA declined to give a response to The Athletic. 

Shortly after the U.S. was awarded the tournament, Trump hosted Infantino at the White House. Infantino, who was also serving his first term as FIFA president, made an impression by handing Trump red and yellow penalty cards, joking they could be used on the press.

The relationship flourished in 2020 as both men planned their futures.

Trump has signed an executive order establishing a White House Task Force for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Trump will serve as the chair of the task force, while Vice President JD Vance will serve as the vice chair.