Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, allegedly sought assistance from the Trump administration to secure a work permit for his Nicaraguan housekeeper after her legal status was revoked. Infantino and his advisers reportedly engaged with federal immigration officials, according to sources and leaked documents.
An internal FIFA letter shows that Yajarlin del Socorro Fernandez was employed by FIFA from August 2024 to October 2025, even after her work authorization was revoked. Infantino allegedly used political connections to help Fernandez obtain new authorization through Kristi Noem’s Department of Homeland Security in early 2026, despite earlier policy changes that ended her eligibility.
Carlos Cordeiro, a former adviser to the White House World Cup task force, purportedly orchestrated the arrangement. He is accused of using a false address for Fernandez’s immigration filings to hide her residency with Infantino’s family.
Michael Wildes, an immigration attorney, stated Fernandez’s continued employment became unauthorized once the program granting her parole ended. He suggested Fernandez received special treatment in obtaining new work authorization, a privilege rarely afforded to other noncitizens.
This situation has raised questions and scrutiny regarding Infantino’s relationship with President Trump and his administration, particularly during the World Cup. Infantino faces public backlash amidst controversies surrounding FIFA and calls for a clean governance regime.
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