U.S. Soccer VP Slams FIFA Chief Over Trump Ties

Critical Op‑Ed from Nathán Goldberg Crenier

U.S. Soccer Federation vice president Nathán Goldberg Crenier published a scathing editorial in The Guardian, accusing FIFA President Gianni Infantino of cultivating a cozy relationship with Donald Trump ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Crenier said Infantino’s leadership is moving the sport in an “egotistical and transactional” direction that threatens “the soul of the sport.” His piece calls on soccer leaders worldwide to oppose Infantino’s management decisions.

Infantino’s Alignment With Trump

Crenier highlighted Infantino’s attempts to “ingratiate himself with Donald Trump at all costs” as a bid to win favor from the U.S. government. This overture, according to Crenier, demonstrates a willingness to place political connections above the integrity of the game. The vice president warned that such behavior erodes trust in football’s governing bodies.

Balogun Red Card controversy

The most recent flashpoint for Crenier’s criticism is the suspension of a red card issued to USMNT striker Folarin Balogun. Balogun was sent off for stepping on Tarek Muharemovic’s ankle during a Group Stage match, a foul many deemed accidental. After reports emerged that Trump personally called Infantino to request a review, the ban was lifted before the U.S. faced Belgium in the Round of 16. The Times of London later disclosed that FIFA disciplinary chair Mohammad al‑Kamali made the decision independently.

FIFA Peace Prize furor

Infantino also awarded Donald Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize at the 2026 World Cup draw held in Washington, D.C. The award was conferred without FIFA Council approval, a fact that surprised many council members. The Athletic reported that officials learned about the prize only after it was publicized in the media. The lack of consultation deepened concerns about transparency in FIFA’s decision‑making.

Broader backlash and future outlook

Crenier described the Balogun episode as creating “a lot of outside noise” that distracted the USMNT and sidetracked the sport from its core mission. He further criticized plans for Trump and Infantino to jointly present the World Cup trophy, calling it a “debasing of our sport again and again.” Despite the challenges, Crenier expressed optimism that other sports figures are speaking out against Infantino’s ethical lapses.

UEFA joined the chorus of criticism in May, accusing Infantino of placing “private political interests” ahead of the game’s welfare. talkSPORT reported that European soccer may field candidates to replace Infantino when his term ends. The growing opposition suggests a potential shift in FIFA’s leadership and governance.

Looking forward, Crenier urged soccer federations to safeguard the sport’s integrity from external political influence. The ongoing scrutiny raises important questions about how FIFA balances its global responsibilities with the personal agendas of its president. Fans and officials alike are watching to see whether reforms will restore confidence in the sport’s governing body.