FIFA clears U.S. striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium in the World Cup last-16 match after it suspended what would have been his one-game red-card ban. Balogun was sent off during the United States’ 2–0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina for a foul on Tarik Muharemovic, a red card that would normally trigger automatic suspension and keep him out of the Monday game in Seattle. Multiple outlets report that U.S. President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the disciplinary decision, and that direct contact with FIFA occurred. FIFA says it acts under Article 27 of its disciplinary code, suspending the match suspension for a probationary period of one year; if Balogun commits a similar offence during that period, the suspension would be reinstated. U.S. Soccer says it accepts the disciplinary committee’s decision and confirms Balogun is eligible. Several reports note that the process does not constitute a formal “appeal” of a red card at the tournament, but rather a disciplinary-code mechanism that allows Balogun to be available for selection. Trump publicly thanks FIFA, framing the change as reversing an injustice.
FIFA suspends Balogun red-card ban after Trump contacts Infantino ahead of USA vs Belgium
FIFA clears U.S. striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium in the World Cup last-16 match after it suspended what would have been his one-game red-card ban. Balogun was sent off during the Unite...
- Folarin Balogun receives a red card in the U.S. win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, which would normally trigger a one-game suspension.
- FIFA suspends the effect of Balogun’s match suspension, clearing him to play against Belgium in the Round of 16.
- Reports say Donald Trump urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case, with claims of direct contact between the White House and FIFA.
- FIFA cites Article 27 of its disciplinary code and applies a probationary period; a similar offence would reinstate the suspension.
- U.S. Soccer confirms Balogun is eligible for the Belgium match and says it accepts FIFA’s disciplinary decision.
The 25-year-old was dismissed after a VAR review, with US coach Mauricio Pochettino saying it was never a red-card offence.
FIFA insists its judicial bodies acted independently after US President Donald Trump backed the decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s World Cup ban, but the ruling sparked a global backlash as Belgium eliminated the hosts from the tournament.
Donald Trump‘s intervention in Folarin Balogun‘s World Cup suspension is now threatening to create fresh problems for FIFA. Soccer’s global The Trump’s World Cup Red Card Saga Could Trigger FIFA Ethics Case first appeared on The Blast
2 months agoBalogun's ban was suspended by FIFA after a phone call from Trump to Gianni Infantino, a close confidante of the US President, where he urged the football supremo to allow the striker to play.
2 months agoFolarin Balogun's case became a flashpoint in the tournament, generating widespread criticism of FIFA's leadership and the US president.
2 months agoPresident Trump applauded FIFA boss Gianni Infantino for making a "great decision" when he canceled the red card against USA striker Folarin Balogun
2 months agoPresident Trump applauded FIFA boss Gianni Infantino for making a "great decision" when he canceled the red card against USA striker Folarin Balogun The post Trump Praises FIFA Boss for Canceling Controversial Balogun Red Card: ‘Great Decision!’ first appeared on Mediaite.
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump praised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for intervening to help lift a red-card suspension for US player Folarin Balogun, revisiting a World Cup decision that outraged soccer fans across the globe.
2 months agoOne of the biggest talking points of this summer’s World Cup has been Folarin Balogun’s red card being overturned by FIFA. It was a decision that even saw President Donald Trump play his role to make the USMNT striker available for the last 16 game against Belgium.
2 months agoUSSF chief exec focuses on ‘incredible support’ of fansWon’t say if federation regrets Trump involvementUS president called Fifa to lobby for red card reviewUS Soccer Federation chief executive JT Batson made his first public remarks Thursday about the controversy surrounding Donald Trump’s involvement in this summer’s World Cup, participating in a media roundtable with US Soccer chief operating officer Dan Helfrich and Fifa head of global football development Arsène Wenger.Before the United States’ last-16 encounter with Belgium, Trump revealed that he had made several calls to Fifa president Gianni Infantino, lobbying for a review of US forward Folarin Balogun’s red card in the last-32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Fifa eventually suspended Balogun’s ban but denied that Trump’s repeated calls had influenced that decision. Continue reading...
2 months agoPractically the whole football world was astounded when FIFA listened to USA president Donald Trump and allowed USMNT striker Folarin Balogun to play in the World Cup round of 16 against Belgium, after he was sent off against Bosnia-Herzegovina. And while FIFA president Gianni Infantino denied that Trump’s call was crucial for such a decision […] The post It was difficult for USA star Folarin Balogun to focus following reversal of red card suspension (Video) appeared first on SoccerNews.
2 months agoUSMNT striker Folarin Balogun has admitted that Donald Trump's intervention to overturn his World Cup red card suspension "caused a lot of controversy" and created visible nerves among his teammates. While insisting the original red card was wrong, Balogun acknowledged the outside noise was difficult to avoid. FIFA has still offered no explanation for suspending the ban, as the controversy continues to grow.
2 months agoFolarin Balogun admitted Tuesday that the suspension of his red card in the World Cup after President Donald Trump intervened put added pressure on the US team.Trump then admitted he had called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ask for the card to be reviewed.
2 months agoUS striker’s red card was suspended after Trump callsFifa president accused of breaching neutrality rulesThe United States striker Folarin Balogun has revealed he predicted Donald Trump’s involvement in overturning his World Cup suspension would “cause a lot of controversy”.The Monaco forward was sent off with a red card in the United States’ round-of-32 meeting with Bosnia and Herzegovina, but Fifa’s disciplinary committee then suspended the one-match ban for a year, allowing Balogun to participate in the Americans’ last-16 loss to Belgium. Continue reading...
2 months agoUnited States striker Folarin Balogun has revealed he predicted President Donald Trump’s involvement in overturning his World Cup suspension would “cause a lot of controversy. ” The Monaco forward was sent off with a red card in the United States’ round-of-32 meeting with Bosnia and Herzegovina, but FIFA’s disciplinary committee then suspended the one-match ban for a year, allowing Balogun to participate in the Americans’ last-16 loss to Belgium.
2 months agoUSA striker Folarin Balogun had his World Cup ban suspended, meaning he was available to play against Belgium
2 months agoUSA striker Folarin Balogun had his World Cup ban suspended, meaning he was available to play against Belgium
2 months agoThe 25-year-old was thrust into the center of a global storm after it emerged that the president had lobbied FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the red card.
2 months agoThe 25-year-old was thrust into the center of a global storm after it emerged that the president had lobbied FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the red card.
2 months agoEven with the United States eliminated from the World Cup, the fallout from FIFA’s decision to suspend the match ban for Folarin Balogun has continued, as new details have emerged about how the FIFA Disciplinary Committee reached its decision. The committee chairman, Mohammad al-Kamali of the United Arab Emirates, made the call on his own...
2 months agoThe international football federation (Fifa), the body responsible for the overall conduct and supervision of the 2026 World Cup, brought the beautiful game into disrepute earlier this week. In an unprecedented move it lifted the automatic ban on US top player Folarin Balogun, after he was red carded and sent off in the US match […]
2 months ago"All I did was ask for a review because I didn't think it was a foul," United States President Donald Trump said this week in front of reporters in the Oval Office.
2 months ago"All I did was ask for a review because I didn't think it was a foul," United States President Donald Trump said this week in front of reporters in the Oval Office.
2 months agoFIFA · WORLD CUP Key Facts —World Cup 2026 FIFA: FIFA lifted Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension before the United States played Belgium. —Trigger: US President Donald Trump said he asked FIFA to review the case. —FIFA position: FIFA said the decision was taken by its disciplinary committee. —Objections: UEFA, a group of European lawmakers […] The post World Cup 2026 FIFA Under Fire Over Balogun Red Card Reversal appeared first on The Rio Times.
2 months agoFootball governing body suspended US striker’s one-match ban after phone call from Donald Trump, only for host team to crash out of World Cup
2 months agoUnited States Men’s National Team star striker Folarin Balogun suddenly found himself at the center of some drama this week after FIFA allowed him to play in Monday’s match against Belgium despite the red card he received in the previous match. The decision was highly unusual, and United States President Donald Trump became directly involved.…
2 months agoThe US were dumped out of the World Cup in a 4-1 thrashing by Belgium, but their final days in the competition were marred by a huge controversy surrounding star man Balogun and his ban.
2 months agoThe US were dumped out of the World Cup in a 4-1 thrashing by Belgium, but their final days in the competition were marred by a huge controversy surrounding star man Balogun and his ban.
2 months agoUS President Donald Trump has confirmed he personally lobbied his FIFA counterpart Gianni Infantino over Balogun’s dismissal.
2 months agoUS President Donald Trump has confirmed he personally lobbied his FIFA counterpart Gianni Infantino over Balogun’s dismissal.
2 months agoTrump and the Fifa debacle Financial TimesWorld Cup 2026: Folarin Balogun decision could lead to football 'cesspit' - Uefa's Laura McAllister BBCGary Lineker: USA should have left Folarin Balogun out of Belgium game ESPNFifa accuses Uefa of hypocrisy in latest war of words over Folarin Balogun decision The GuardianWorld Cup: how Trump’s Balogun red card call ‘COMPLETELY BACKFIRED’ on America Channel 4
2 months agoDANIEL MATTHEWS IN SEATTLE: The build-up was dominated by FIFA's extraordinary decision to allow Balogun to play - despite the striker being sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
2 months agoDANIEL MATTHEWS IN SEATTLE: The build-up was dominated by FIFA's extraordinary decision to allow Balogun to play - despite the striker being sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
2 months agoDrawing on his years of soccer expertise, US President Donald Trump declared Folarin Balogun’s previous-round red card for stomping completely invalid, insisting it be immediately overturned.
2 months agoSeattle: FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump had called him regarding the disciplinary case involving the U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, but stressed that the decision to suspend the enforcement of the player's one-match ban was made independently by FIFA's judicial bodies.⚽#TiempoDeMundial | Polémica por la suspensión de la tarjeta roja a Folarin Balogun por parte de la FIFA tras una llamada de Donald Trump a Gianni Infantino. El delantero fue expulsado durante el partido de la selección estadounidense frente a Bosnia-Herzegovina, disputado… pic.twitter.com/uN5JckJmvK— EL TIEMPO (@ELTIEMPO) July 6, 2026 Balogun was sent off for stamping on defender Tarik Muharemovic during the U.S. 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup round of 32 on July 1.Last Sunday, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee imposed a one-match suspension on Balogun but suspended the enforcement of the sanction for a one-year probationary period - under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, allowing the U.S. leading scorer to remain eligible for Monday's round-of-16 clash against Belgium.FIFA World Cup 2026: Folarin Balogun's Controversial Return Overshadowed By Belgium's 4-1 Rout Of USA | Video The ruling drew strong criticism from the Belgian Football Association, which issued statements expressing "astonishment" at the decision. European football governing body UEFA also condemned the ruling, saying it had "crossed a red line" and could have negative consequences for the game as a whole.Responding to the criticism, Infantino reiterated the independence of FIFA's judicial bodies.FIFA President Gianni Infantino: “I have seen the public comments regarding the decision of the independent FIFA Disciplinary Committee related to the suspension of Folarin Balogun, and I would like to reiterate a fundamental principle of FIFA’s governance.“FIFA’s judicial… pic.twitter.com/FzeWuMQIXf— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) July 6, 2026 "I have seen the public comments regarding the decision of the independent FIFA Disciplinary Committee related to the suspension of Folarin Balogun, and I would like to reiterate a fundamental principle of FIFA's governance."FIFA's judicial bodies are independent. They operate autonomously, apply the FIFA Disciplinary Code, and decide cases based on the applicable regulations and the specific facts before them. Their independence is essential to the credibility and integrity of football, and this must always be respected."Infantino also confirmed that Trump had contacted him about the case. "Yes, I regularly discuss matters related to the FIFA World Cup with the President of the United States, and on this matter, I did receive a call from President Donald Trump, just as I receive calls from heads of state, government officials, football stakeholders and business executives from around the world on many different issues," he said."During our conversation, I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies. That is how FIFA's system works, and it is a principle that I will always uphold."Infantino said he respected the autonomy of FIFA's judicial bodies regardless of his personal views on their decisions."I read the decisions of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee when they are issued. Sometimes I am surprised by them. Sometimes I agree with them, and sometimes I disagree," he said."What I always do, however, is respect those decisions and the autonomy of the bodies that make them. Whether we personally like a decision or not is irrelevant. Respect for independent institutions and the rule of law is what protects the integrity of our competitions and the credibility of FIFA at all times."Trump had previously acknowledged in an interview that he had called Infantino and urged FIFA to review Balogun's red card decision.Reporter: Can you describe your phone call with Gianni Infantino about the red card? Belgium is appealing the decision.Trump: You’re asking me about the whole soccer thing. So, yeah, I did. I spoke to Gianni. That wasn’t a foul. That wasn’t even an infraction. That was two… pic.twitter.com/zpC1e5L818— Acyn (@Acyn) July 6, 2026 According to sports statistics provider Opta, no player has ever appeared in his team's next FIFA World Cup match after receiving a red card since the introduction of the yellow and red card system in 1970.Should Balogun take the field against Belgium on Monday in Seattle, he would become the first player in World Cup history to do so.(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
2 months agoDrawing on his years of soccer expertise, US President Donald Trump declared Folarin Balogun’s previous-round red card for stomping completely invalid, insisting it be immediately overturned.
2 months agoDrawing on his years of soccer expertise, US President Donald Trump declared Folarin Balogun’s previous-round red card for stomping completely invalid, insisting it be immediately overturned.
2 months agoJürgen Klopp has criticised FIFA’s handling of Folarin Balogun’s overturned suspension, warning that political involvement in football decisions “calls everything into question.” The controversy intensified after Donald Trump claimed credit for contacting Gianni Infantino over the USA striker’s ban. Despite Balogun’s return, USA were eliminated by Belgium, but the FIFA disciplinary row continues to spark global backlash.
2 months agoUS President Donald Trump holds the FIFA World Cup trophy during a visit by FIFA president Gianni Infantino to the White House last year. Photo: Reuters FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended world football's disciplinary process amid mounting international criticism after US President Donald Trump praised FIFA’s decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s World Cup red-card ban.
2 months agoFootball experts, officials warn of 'dangerous precedent' set by FIFA after U-turn on red card for USA forward Balogun.
2 months agoLOS ANGELES, United States (AFP)—FIFA defended the World Cup referee at the centre of the Folarin Balogun controversy on Monday after the official was branded "very suspect" by US President Donald Trump. In a statement, FIFA said Brazilian official Rapahel Claus had "demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism and integrity" throughout his career. Claus had shown US striker Balogun a controversial red card last week, prompting Trump to lobby FIFA to review the forward's one-match suspension. FIFA subsequently reprieved Balogun, allowing him to play in Monday's last-16 clash against Belgium in Seattle, in a decision that has been widely criticised. Trump had questioned Claus's refereeing credentials while speaking to reporters in the White House earlier on Monday. "This referee, who is a little bit suspect if you check his past. I don't want to say that because I don't like to create controversy, but very suspect. He made a call that nobody could believe," Trump said. The remarks had already been condemned by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), who said there was nothing in Claus's background which "gives grounds for suspicion." FIFA chief refereeing officer and chairman of the referees committee Pierluigi Collina, said Claus was a key member of the World Cup referees pool. "Raphael Claus is refereeing at his second FIFA World Cup having been with us in Qatar in 2022," Collina said in a statement. "He is an experienced and highly respected referee and we maintain full confidence in him as a trusted match official."
2 months agoFIFA faces mounting pressure after Folarin Balogun's suspension was overturned following Donald Trump's intervention claims.
2 months agoEuropean politicians, soccer officials and pundits have rounded on the move to let previously-suspended Folarin Balogun play against Belgium.
2 months ago'Not a foul': Trump confirms he asked Fifa boss to review star striker Balogun's red card ban ITVXWorld Cup 2026: Is Balogun the scandal that could bring down Infantino? BBCUSMNT dismisses Balogun noise in World Cup exit: 'No Excuses' ESPNUSA vs Belgium LIVE! World Cup 2026 last 16 fixture, score, live updates and team news Sky SportsTrump confirms he asked Infantino for review of Folarin Balogun red card The Guardian
2 months agoPresident Trump says he called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to complain about the red card given to U.S. player Folarin Balogun. A FIFA committee has since lifted the suspension that would have kept Balogun out of Monday's knockout match against Belgium. CBS News correspondent Nicole Valdes reports. Then, Major League Soccer analyst and World Cup commentator Tony Husband joins to discuss further.
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump confirmed that he asked FIFA to review USMNT star Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension, which the organization later lifted
2 months agoDonald Trump has, remarkably, confirmed that he intervened with FIFA to overturn a red card for US striker Folarin Balogun. The World Cup 2026 has not been without political themes this tournament, particularly considering how players and referees have been prevented from making it into the US to compete with their national teams. However, Trump’s […] By Maddison Wheeldon
2 months agoThe relationship between Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, long in the making, is now at the center of one of the great World Cup controversies, sparking anger, disbelief and questions about the integrity of global sport’s biggest tournament. Trump's intervention in the lifting of U.S. forward Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension has shone the spotlight on his close ties with Infantino. It has led to furor from Belgium — the U.S. team's opponent in the round of 16 match on Monday — as European soccer's governing body, UEFA, accused FIFA of crossing a “red line.”
2 months agoFIFA chief Gianni Infantino on Monday defended the decision to reprieve US World Cup star Folarin Balogun after Donald Trump said he had appealed directly to the head of world football's governing body over the issue.European football's governing body UEFA said FIFA had "crossed a red line" by allowing Balogun to play.
2 months agoThe president of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, issued a statement on Monday distancing himself from his organization's decision to reverse a red card suspension issued to American player Folarin Balogun, allowing the striker to play against Belgium on Monday night at the World Cup. The post FIFA Boss Gianni Infantino Confirms Trump Call, Says Balogun Red Card Decision Not His appeared first on Breitbart.
2 months agoFIFA has always insisted it is politically neutral. But its integrity is now being questioned after US President Donald Trump confirmed he asked for Folarin Balogun's suspension to be reviewed.
2 months agoPundits attacked President Donald Trump after he called FIFA President Gianni Infantino before the Folarin Balogun red card reversal ahead of the upcoming Belgium game.
2 months agoThe World Cup clash on Monday night between the U.S. and Belgium will fall against a backdrop of international anger after FIFA revoked the suspension of a star American striker following an inquiry by President Trump. FIFA suspended the red card for Folarin Balogun, which would have led to a one-game ban, after Trump...
2 months agoReversing a red card against U.S. soccer star Folarin Balogun isn’t FIFA’s only unusual concession to Trump. The post FIFA Gives Trump Exactly What He Wants appeared first on The Intercept.
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump confirms he asked Fifa to review United States striker Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension at the World Cup.
2 months agoWith the integrity of Fifa and the World Cup under attack from European football leaders, Fifa President Gianni Infantino acknowledged taking a call from US President Donald Trump before US forward Folarin Balogun was cleared to play against Belgium later on Monday. Balogun was issued a red card in the US match against Bosnia-Herzegovina last week, resulting in a suspension for the Belgium contest. Trump called Infantino after the match with Bosnia to plead his case to overturn the call and Fifa...
2 months agoIn a decision that should affix an asterix to any US Men's World Cup victory going forward, FIFA, the ruling body of international soccer, has decided to "suspend" a red card that a game official issued to the USMNT's best player, Folarin Balogun, in the team's 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina. This makes Balogun eligible for the round of 16 match tonight against Belgium.
2 months agoThe global football community has found itself on the brink of a major split over behind-the-scenes decisions affecting one of the fundamental principles of the disciplinary regulations. UEFA Accuses FIFA of Crossing a Red Line A controversy has erupted at the FIFA World Cup over the cancellation of a red-card suspension for a United States national team player following a request by U. S. President Donald Trump. The controversy centers on FIFA's decision to suspend, on a one-year probationary basis, the automatic one-match suspension following the red card shown to Folarin Balogun. The United States' first-choice striker received the dismissal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina (2-0) after a heavy stamp on an opponent's ankle. Under the tournament regulations, such a red card automatically results in a suspension for the following match.
2 months agoFIFA overturned a one-game suspension on USMNT striker after Donald Trump made some phone calls
2 months agoTrump says he asked FIFA's president to review USA player Balogun's game suspension, but did not tell him what to do.
2 months agoUS President Donald Trump has confirmed that he spoke with Gianni Infantino, FIFA president, to review Folarin Balogun’s red card at the ongoing 2026 World Cup. Trump confirmed the phone conversation with Infantino in a chat with reporters at the White House on Monday. The US president then clarified that while he requested that the red card be reviewed, he did not ask for it to be overturned. “I asked for a review because I didn’t think it was a foul. All I did was ask for a review, I didn’t say you have to do this,” Trump said. “That wasn’t even an infraction. That was two guys running full speed that happened to crash into each other.” Balogun, who is the leading goalscorer for the US at the World Cup, was sent off in the 64th minute of the round-of-32 match between the US and Bosnia & Herzegovina for a dangerous foul. He was supposed to miss the team’s last 16 match against Belgium on Tuesday. On Sunday, however, FIFA announced an unprecedented decision to suspend the 25-year-old’s one-match ban for one year, making him available for the game. The ruling has continued to generate backlash for FIFA globally. UEFA accused FIFA of crossing a “red line” with the “unjustifiable” verdict. The European football body added that the decision “creates a precedent” that could be detrimental to the ongoing FIFA World Cup or the sport itself. Also, the Belgian FA described the FIFA ruling as contravening the provisions of the FIFA World Cup 2026 competition regulations and said it is investigating “all potential options” to protect the integrity of the game.
2 months agoAfter President Donald Trump admitted requesting a review, Folarin Balogun will be allowed to feature in the hosts’ next game, despite receiving a red card in his last game. La entrada UEFA condemns FIFA over US striker ban lift se publicó primero en Buenos Aires Herald.
2 months agoMr Infantino says the world football body's judicial panels operate independently and insisted he did not influence the decision to suspend the implementation of Folarin Balogun's automatic World Cup ban The post FIFA president confirms Trump’s call over red card, but…. appeared first on Premium Times Nigeria.
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump's call to FIFA President Gianni Infantino preceded FIFA's decision to reverse a red card ban for USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play against Belgium. The move has drawn widespread criticism.
2 months agoUnited States President Donald Trump has admitted to asking FIFA to review Folarin Balogun's red card at the World Cup. The post Trump claims he influenced Balogun’s ban reversal appeared first on Premium Times Nigeria.
2 months agoEuropean officials are weighing in on President Trump’s call to the head of FIFA ahead of the reversal of a one-game ban for USA’s Folarin Balogun. Belgium Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot said the overturned red card suspension was unfair. “This decision clearly raises many questions,” Prévot, a former soccer referee, said in a Monday statement, according...
2 months agoFIFA’s decision to lift the automatic suspension of U.S. forward Folarin Balogun has caused an uproar. Balogun was red-carded against Bosnia-Herzegovina last week in the round of 32 but shockingly cleared to play against Belgium on Monday in Seattle in the round of 16. The Belgian federation was making a last-ditch appeal against the rare ruling. The suspension was erased after President Donald Trump spoke with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, fueling debate over whether political influence played a role.
2 months agoFIFA’s decision to lift the automatic suspension of U.S. forward Folarin Balogun has caused an uproar. Balogun was red-carded against Bosnia-Herzegovina last week in the round of 32 but shockingly cleared to play against Belgium on Monday in Seattle in the round of 16. The suspension was erased after President Donald Trump spoke with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, fueling debate over whether political influence played a role.
2 months agoFIFA President Gianni Infantino says he discussed the red card suspension of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun with Donald Trump, and he explained to the U.S. president that a decision on the matter would be taken by FIFA’s independent judicial bodies. “During our conversation, I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA’s independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies,” Infantino said in a statement Monday on X. “That is how FIFA’s system works, and it is a principle that I will always uphold."
2 months agoFIFA president Gianni Infantino broke his silence Monday morning on the decision to suspend USMNT star Folarin Balogun’s one-game ban, news that rocked the World Cup as he’s now allowed to play vs. Belgium Monday evening in the Round of 16. Infantino explained how the decision was reached and gave his side of the phone...
2 months agoGianni Infantino has been heavily criticised after USA striker Folarin Balogun saw his red card lifted for their last-16 clash with Belgium on Tuesday, with Donald Trump having intervened
2 months agoEuropean football's governing body Uefa on Monday lashed out at the decision of World Cup organisers Fifa to suspend the immediate one-match ban of the United States striker Folarin Balogun following the intervention of US President Donald Trump.
2 months agoUnited States president, Donald Trump, has claimed that referee Raphael Claus’ past is “suspect”. Claus is the referee who showed a red card to American striker, Folarin Balogun, during a last-32 clash against Bosnia at the 2026 World Cup. FIFA on Sunday overturned the one-game ban that came with the sending off. This means Balogun […] Referee’s past is suspect – Trump on why he asked FIFA to suspend Balogun’s red card
2 months agoDonald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding a red card suspension. FIFA then invoked an obscure rule to freeze the player's one-match ban. This action has caused significant controversy within the global football community. Critics argue that political interference should not influence sporting regulations. The incident highlights broader geopolitical and immigration themes connected to the player.
2 months agoThe decision by Gianni Infantino’s FIFA to suspend USA striker Folarin Balogun's red card ban after a call from Donald Trump has severely compromised the tournament's integrity.
2 months agoA stunning red-card reversal has sparked a global soccer controversy after President Trump weighed in on Folarin Balogun's suspension. Bloomberg's Randall Williams joins the show to talk about whether the decision was fair, if slow-motion review distorts intent, and why the ruling could create a dangerous precedent for the World Cup. (Source: Bloomberg)
2 months agoUS President Donald Trump confirmed his call to FIFA president Gianni Infantino. He asked Infantino to review Folarin Balogun's red card and suspension. FIFA later lifted the suspension, allowing Balogun to play. This decision sparked praise from Trump and outrage from Belgium. The suspension reversal was an extraordinary move in World Cup history.
2 months agoEurope's soccer governing body and prominent commentators have criticized the decision, which allows Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium.
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump said Monday that he asked FIFA to review U.S. men’s national team striker Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension before world soccer’s governing body reversed the decision, making the forward eligible to play in the United States’ World... The post Trump says he asked FIFA to review US football star’s suspension; European football slams FIFA’s decision appeared first on Dominica News Online.
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump said Monday that he asked FIFA to review U.S. men’s national team striker Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension before world soccer’s governing body reversed the decision, making the forward eligible to play in the United States’ World... The post FIFA reverses US football star’s suspension at Trump’s request; European football slams FIFA’s decision appeared first on Dominica News Online.
2 months agoThe soccer world is reacting after FIFA lifted Folarin Balogun's red card suspension, allowing him to play in the U.S.-Belgium game. CBS News' Nancy Cordes and Elizabeth Campbell have more.
2 months agoThe soccer world is reacting after FIFA lifted Folarin Balogun's red card suspension, allowing him to play in the U.S.-Belgium game. CBS News' Nancy Cordes and Elizabeth Campbell have more.
2 months agoUS President Donald Trump defended FIFA's decision to overturn Folarin Balogun's red card suspension.
2 months agoDonald Trump with FIFA president Gianni Infantino (Getty) United States President Donald Trump has confirmed he personally called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ‘review’ USA striker Folarin Balogun’s red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the World Cup, which was controversially overturned.Balogun was sent off after VAR reviewed a challenge he made in the last-32 match against Bosnia, and the red card was due to lead to automatic ban for United States’ last-16 tie against Belgium on Monday.However, in an unprecedented move, on Sunday the FIFA Disciplinary Committee announced it would suspend Balogun’s one-match ban by a probationary period of one year, allowing him to play against Belgium.Speaking for the first time about the incident, Trump branded Brazilian referee, Raphael Claus, ‘very suspect’, and revealed that he personally asked Infantino to overturn the decision. Don't miss a World Cup moment Wow (Picture: Getty) What a rollercoaster this has been. Make sense of the drama with Metro's free daily newsletter, featuring England updates, match previews and exclusive analysis. Sign up now. ‘I spoke to Gianni, who’s highly respected,’ Trump said at the Oval Office on Monday.‘I saw the play and I’m a person that loves sports and was a good athlete, and I understand sports really well, really well and that wasn’t a foul, that wasn’t even an infraction, that was two guys running full speed that happened to crash into each other.‘These were two great athletes that got tangled up and this referee, who is a little bit suspect, if you check his past. I don’t want to say that, because I don’t like to create controversy, but very suspect.‘He made a call that nobody could believe. He [Balogun] didn’t do anything wrong and he’s our best player, or one of our best players… and he [the referee] gave him a red card.‘It’s very unfair, you can’t do that. So, yes, I asked for a review by FIFA. I spoke to a man who’s highly respected [Infantino] and by the way, whose level of respect has gone up tenfold.’For more stories like this, check our sport page.Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump confirmed that he asked FIFA to review U.S. soccer player Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension before the organization reversed its decision, allowing the star striker to participate in Monday night’s match.
2 months agoUS President Donald Trump said on Monday that he asked FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to review a red-card foul against USA striker Folarin Balogun and that he did not think the foul, called by the “horrible” referee, was fair. “All I did, I asked for a review, because I didn’t think it was a foul,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. The unprecedented move has thrust FIFA’s disciplinary process into the global spotlight and prompted an angry response from Belgium, who play the US on Monday for a place in the quarter-finals of the World Cup. Trump said the incident that got Balogun the red card was simply a case of two athletes colliding and he raised questions about the fairness of the referee who called the foul. “I saw the play,” Trump said. “That wasn’t a foul. That wasn’t even an infraction. That was two guys running whole speed that happened to crash into each other. “These were two great athletes that got tangled up, and this referee, who, is a little bit suspect if you check his past … very suspect,” Trump added. He said FIFA made a “really brilliant decision” to suspend the red card. “I think the referee’s call was horrible,” he said. Trump said all he did was ask for a review. “I didn’t tell them what to do. I can’t tell them what to do,” he said, adding that it was important for Team USA to have its best players on the field. “If they wouldn’t allow a top player … to play, I think it would have had a big stain. I relayed it … and I don’t believe he (Infantino) made the decision, I think it was a committee that made the decision. And it made the right decision because … it wasn’t a foul, and you want to see a game with your best players,” Trump told reporters. Earlier, European football body UEFA lashed out at FIFA’s decision to suspend US striker Folarin Balogun’s red-card ban in the World Cup, after Trump called FIFA to ask it to review the case, saying world football’s governing body had “crossed a red line” and undermined the integrity of the game. “We express our disbelief at such an unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable decision,” UEFA said in a statement on Monday. “When the certainty of rules is no longer guaranteed by its guardians, the integrity of the game is at stake, and the credibility of a competition is undermined.” Reuters has reached out to FIFA for comment. Balogun, who has scored three goals for the US in the tournament, was sent off after a VAR review for dragging his cleats down the back of defender Tarik Muharemovic’s leg and onto his foot during their win over Bosnia in the round of 32. Trump had asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review Balogun’s red card, which would have automatically suspended the player from Monday’s round of 16 clash with Belgium. FIFA suspended the implementation of the ban for a probationary period of one year, however, without rescinding the red card. The stunning move has thrust FIFA’s disciplinary process into the spotlight and prompted an angry response from the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA), which said it was “astonished” by FIFA’s decision. The Athletic reported that the RBFA has written to FIFA to lodge an appeal in the matter.
2 months agoUS President Donald Trump said he personally asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the red card and one-match suspension handed to Team USA striker Folarin Balogun, a move that has sparked major controversy at the FIFA World Cup, according to CNN.
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump said he asked FIFA to review the red card given to Folarin Balogun, calling the referee decision horrible ahead of the Belgium World Cup match.
2 months agoWorld Cup 2026: Fifa ‘crossed a red line’ after decision to overturn ban for US striker's red card Submitted by Hannah. Smith on Mon, 07/06/2026 - 13:25 Social media users slammed decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban after reported phone calls from Trump Folarin Balogun of team USA is shown a red card by referee Raphael Claus during the 2026 Fifa World Cup co-host's match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on 1 July (Phil Noble/Reuters) Off In a move that surprised many fans and football commentators alike, Fifa announced on Sunday that USA striker Folarin Balogun will be available to play in the upcoming game against Belgium, despite being sent off with a red card during the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. A red card comes with an automatic one-match suspension, meaning that players are banned from playing in their team’s next match. Fifa confirmed that the disciplinary action against Balogun has been suspended for a year, in an unprecedented move. Commentators have accused the global football body of caving to political pressure after reports that US President Donald Trump made personal phone calls to Fifa, and several officials were involved in challenging the initial red card decision. It is exceptionally rare for a player not to immediately serve their suspension, mostly because Fifa’s disciplinary code does not allow appeals against straight red cards. There has only been one other case in history where a player has not served a suspension, which occurred in 1962, during a time in which there was no automatic ban. US involvement began just minutes after Balogun received a red card, according to Politico. Andrew Giuliani, the White House Fifa World Cup Task Force executive director, alongside Howard Lutnick, the commerce secretary, and other senior US Soccer Federation officials, spent four days lobbying and organising to appeal the red card decision, the American news website reported. If this is the “right decision,” then what’s the point of red cards anymore?Every controversial dismissal can now be overturned after the fact. The laws of the game only matter until someone decides they don’t.That’s not justice. That’s arbitrary. https://t.co/0aFhqaOxjV— Daniel Solana (@DiceElDani) July 5, 2026 Fifa justified the decision on the grounds of Article 27, which gives it the power to suspend any disciplinary measures. However, the Belgian Football Association released a statement saying it was “astonished” by the decision, calling it a “direct contradiction” with other provisions in the World Cup disciplinary code and competition regulations, underscoring the automatic suspension that comes with a red card. On Monday, Belgium was given the right to appeal the decision, but with a limited time frame to submit it on the same day. I do not think people are grasping just how devastating allowing politicital interference within football actually is. Whether it was a red card or not is COMPLETELY IRRELEVANT. Open season has now been declared on the integrity of the game.— Annemarie Dray (@AnnemarieDray) July 6, 2026 While Trump praised the decision in a post on Truth Social, Europe's football federation Uefa decried the decision, saying that Fifa had “crossed a red line”. “Football, like any other sports, relies on rules, which are the basis for fair, honest and transparent competition. Sometimes rules are open to interpretation. In this case not. "A minimum automatic suspension of one match following a red card is not a discretionary option and does not require the decision of a competent body to be enacted,” the statement read. “When the certainty of rules is no longer guaranteed by its guardians, the integrity of the game is at stake and the credibility of a competition is undermined,” it continued, adding: “We express our disbelief at such an unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable decision.” All I’ll say is if this was AFCON and they let a man play after he got a red card, the nonsense being said would be crazy— Yannick Bolasie (@YannickBolasie) July 5, 2026 Many commentators took to various social media platforms to echo the criticism, accusing Fifa of unfairly privileging the US. Former Fifa President Sepp Blatter wrote on X: “Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls. They are overturned by rules, evidence and independent bodies… Football must never become a playground for political power.” Former spokesperson for Barack Obama and political commentator, Tommy Vietor, said: “As a fan, I am obviously overjoyed that Balogun will get to play,” but that “it will make the rest of the world feel like the tournament was rigged”. Recently, FIFA suspended Nepal’s football federation over government interference. Several federations have faced sanctions for the same reason.Now we learn the White House made a direct call to FIFA asking Infantino to review Balogun’s red card.FIFA insists the decision was…— Leyla Hamed (@leylahamed) July 5, 2026 In a Reddit thread about the incident, one user said: "the fact that these sorts of calls are rarely overturned acts as an equalizer, since it could happen to any team. so overturning the call for a host country feels like favoritism". Some social media users amplified other issues surrounding this year’s Fifa World Cup, criticising the Trump administration’s policies on immigration and the treatment of the Iranian national team. Folarin Balogun is an American citizen because of birthright citizenship. Trump just tried to get rid of it at the Supreme Court.Sounds like he’s a fan now! https://t.co/QtsnlA0z7e— Harry Sisson (@harryjsisson) July 5, 2026 British media host Piers Morgan said: “This will be the biggest story, and potential scandal, of the World Cup.” Author and geopolitics expert Bruno Macaes wrote on X: “If you don’t draw the line at genocide I don’t think you’ll draw it at football,” referring to the continued participation of Israel's football association in international competitions despite its ongoing genocide in Gaza. Middle East Eye has reached out to the White House and Fifa for comment. World Cup 2026 Trending Post Date Override 0 Update Date Mon, 05/04/2020 - 21:29 Update Date Override 0
2 months agoUnited States President Donald Trump says Fifa "made the right decision" to suspend Folarin Balogun's one-match ban, adding that otherwise, it would have left a "big stain" on the World Cup.
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump said he called FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to review the case of US star Folarin Balogun, claiming the striker had not committed a foul deserving a red card and defending the organization’s decision to overturn the suspension.
2 months agoFIFA boss slammed for controversial decision to suspend US star Folarin Balogun's one-game ban; Ruling, which came after the intervention of Donald Trump, permits striker to play in the co-hosts' World Cup last 16 match with Belgium. Leer más
2 months agoThe decision by FIFA to rescind U.S. striker Folarin Balogun's one-game suspension followed a rapid response from the Trump administration-and a personal call from the president.
2 months agoBalogun, the United States' leading scorer in the tournament with three goals, was sent off for stepping on the right ankle of Bosnia-Herzegovina's Tarik Muharemovic during the USA's 2-0 round-of-32 win on Wednesday.
2 months agoU.S. President Donald Trump intervened on behalf of star U.S. forward Folarin Balogun, whose red-card suspension was lifted in a decision that allows him to play in a World Cup match against Belgium on Monday.Balogun, the American leader with three goals in the tournament, received a red card for stepping awkwardly on the right ankle of Tarik Muharemović of Bosnia-Herzegovina in a 2-0 round of 32 win on Wednesday, triggering an automatic one-game suspension.FIFA announced Sunday that the suspension had been lifted for the round of 16 match, an extraordinary move that triggered praise from Trump and outrage from Belgium’s team. It appeared to be the first time since 1962 that a red card during a World Cup didn’t result in a suspension.Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino after the game asking FIFA review the red card, according to a person familiar with the call who spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to speak publicly about the matter.“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” Trump said in a statement on social media.The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) said it was “astonished,” and Belgium coach Rudi Garcia mocked FIFA’s action.“I didn’t know that in the offices of FIFA the fifth of July was the first of April in Europe,” Garcia said through a translator in an April Fools’ Day comparison. “The Belgian federation does not defend itself, it does not protect the national team. She defends football in general, she defends her integrity, her ethics. I think it’s the first time in the history of the World Cup that there is this kind of decision.”Garcia wouldn’t respond when asked about a possible appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport or whether he thought Trump impacted FIFA’s action.“In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options,” the Belgian federation said in a statement.American players learned of Balogun’s availability when social media posts started popping up during the 10-minute bus ride Sunday morning from their hotel to training at the University of Washington’s Husky Soccer Stadium, where they were greeted by Dubs II, the university’s Alaskan Malamute.Balogun’s red card had been one of the World Cup’s most controversial and consequential decisions. Brazilian referee Raphael Claus didn’t initially signal a card but showed Balogun red after a video review.“If you look at the foul, it was just zero intent at all,” U.S. star Christian Pulisic said. “I felt like there was much worse ones that went on this tournament.”The U.S. Soccer Federation learned of FIFA’s action in a message sent by FIFA in its portal at 10:31 a.m. EDT.“The implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” FIFA announced. “If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.”U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino applauded FIFA’s move.“We were punished enough against Bosnia-Herzegovina to play with 10 men (for) 30 minutes in a decision that was completely unfair,” he said.Pochettino, who played for Argentina in the 2002 World Cup, was not surprised Trump decided to call Infantino.“I came from a culture, Argentina or Europe, that football, soccer is a religion, more than the religion,” he said. “If we go keep going, pushing on, maybe one step more tomorrow you will see that the sport is magic, that the sport is amazing, is so powerful, unite people, unite a country like us.”England coach Thomas Tuchel wondered whether more decisions going forward could be challenged, whether yellow cards could be overturned for England’s Declan Rice and France’s Michael Olise.“We can now debate endlessly: I think it’s not a yellow card,” he said. “Where does this end? Where does it stop?”Balogun’s three goals included a go-ahead strike against Bosnia. He matched Landon Donovan in 2010 for the second-most goals by an American in a World Cup, behind only Bert Patenaude’s four in the initial tournament in 1930.A 25-year-old who plays for Monaco, Balogun scored 13 Ligue 1 goals last season and has 12 goals in 30 international appearances. He was born in Brooklyn to Nigerian parents who were living in London and in 2023 opted to change his national team affiliation from England, which he had represented at the under-21 level.“He strikes fear into a lot of defenders,” Richards said.The host U.S. is seeking to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. The Americans lost in the round of 16 to Ghana in 2010, Belgium in 2014 and the Netherlands in 2022. They failed to advance from the group stage in 2006 and didn’t qualify for the 2018 tournament.The USSF didn’t make Balogun available for comment Sunday, but Balogun posted on social media a picture of himself in front of U.S. fans and overlaid with music of Michael Jackson’s pop single “Bad.”On Friday, Balogun said he thought a yellow card instead of red “would have been fair.”FIFA said its decision relied on Article 27 of disciplinary committee rules.“The judicial body may decide to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure,” the rule states. “By suspending the implementation of the sanction, the judicial body subjects the person sanctioned to a probationary period of one to four years.”FIFA in November deferred the final two games of a three-match ban for Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo for a red card against Ireland in a World Cup qualifier, allowing him to play at the start of the World Cup.Argentine defender Nicolás Otamendi and Ecuadoran midfielder Moisés Caicedo in April had one-game bans deferred for red cards in qualifiers, also allowing them to be available for World Cup openers.Brazilian midfielder Garrincha received a red card in the 83rd minute of the 1962 semifinal against host Chile for kicking an opponent but was allowed to play in the final against Czechoslovakia after a lobbying campaign that included support from Chile President Jorge Alessandri. Brazil won the final for its second straight title.“What about the next red card? What happens then?” Norway coach Ståle Solbakken said. “Is there going to be some committee somewhere that is going to take that card away? It’s a bad, bad, bad, bad, bad decision that will hurt the World Cup.” AP Soccer Writer James Robson and AP Sports Writers Andrew Destin, Jim Vertuno, and Stephen Whyno contributed to this report. —Ronald Blum and Michelle L. Price, Associated Press
2 months agoWorld Cup 2026: UEFA hits out at FIFA decision to allow banned Folarin Balogun to play USA last-16 tie Sky SportsUefa has put European football on war footing with Fifa over Balogun decision The GuardianBelgium ‘challenge eligibility’ of Folarin Balogun after FIFA’s ban decision: What comes next? - The Athletic The New York TimesDonald Trump: Folarin Balogun suspension would have left 'big stain' on World Cup BBC'I understand sports really well' - Trump lobbied FIFA RTE.ie
2 months agoPresident Donald Trump may have revealed just how corrupt FIFA’s 2026 World Cup really is. Just hours after top U.S. Soccer scorer Folarin Balogun received a red card and a minimum automatic one-game suspension, Trump urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the decision, four people told The New York Times. FIFA announced Sunday that it had reversed Balogun’s suspension, making him eligible to play against Belgium on Monday as the U.S. tries to advance to the quarterfinals. This is the first time since 1962 that a player has been allowed to appear in a game after receiving a suspension. The unprecedented decision has sparked serious concerns of favoritism. Earlier this year, Infantino shocked his own top officials by cooking up the FIFA World Peace Prize, apparently to placate Trump after his campaign for the Nobel Peace Prize crashed and burned. It wasn’t just Trump who intervened—senior administration officials including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and World Cup task force director Andrew Giuliani worked quickly to engage lawyers to help the U.S. Soccer mount an appeal.When FIFA delivered its decision, the organization offered no explanation for why Balogun was exempt from his suspension, sparking widespread outrage.The Royal Belgian Football Association released a statement Monday arguing that the FIFA had failed to follow its own rules in processing an appeal, and was “investigating all potential options.” Shortly after, the federation announced it was challenging the decision.The Europa League also released a statement saying the decision was “unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable,” and that FIFA had “crossed a red line.”“When the certainty of rules is no longer guaranteed by its guardians, the integrity of the game is at stake and the credibility of a competition is undermined,” the football club said. Meanwhile, Trump celebrated the decision. “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” the president wrote in a post on Truth Social Sunday afternoon.
2 months agoUEFA said in a statement FIFA “crossed a red line” with its decision not to enforce Balogun’s mandatory one-game ban, after the world soccer body came under pressure from Trump.
2 months agoLAUSANNE, Switzerland (AFP) — FIFA "crossed a red line" with the controversial decision to suspend United States (US) star Folarin Balogun's one game ban for a year, European football's governing body UEFA said on Monday. FIFA's ruling, which came after the intervention of Donald Trump, permits Balogun to play in the co-hosts' World Cup last 16 match with Belgium later on Monday. "Yesterday’s decision to suspend for a probationary period of a year the implementation of the one-match automatic suspension following the red card issued to the player Folarin Balogun crossed a red line," read UEFA's strongly worded statement. "Football, like any other sports, relies on rules, which are the basis for fair, honest and transparent competition. Sometimes rules are open to interpretation. In this case not." UEFA warned of the ramifications for the sport as a whole. "Football is the most loved sport in the world because it is a beautiful game and is trusted because is played everywhere with the same laws," it said. "A tournament is never a pure standalone and, if the tournament in question is the World Cup, it has the power to drive positive or negative consequences on the game as a whole. "We express our disbelief at such an unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable decision." Balogun, who has scored three goals at the World Cup, had been set to miss the clash in Seattle after receiving a straight red card following a video review for stepping on a Bosnia-Herzegovina defender's foot in the round-of-32 match the US won 2-0. Under FIFA rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban. Trump called FIFA chief Gianni Infantino asking him to review Balogun's punishment, two sources familiar with the matter told AFP. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also publicly called for the card to be rescinded. The decision to suspend the ban was taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee. World football's governing body said Sunday the ban will now be suspended for a year, in a stunning move for which no specific explanation was offered. "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. The Belgians were stupefied by the ruling. "I didn't know that at the FIFA World Cup, the 5th of July is now the 1st of April, and that it's April Fool's Day," Belgium coach Rudi Garcia told reporters.
2 months agoExplained: Folarin Balogun’s World Cup red-card reversal, Trump’s phone calls and Fifa’s rationale The GuardianDonald Trump: Folarin Balogun suspension would have left 'big stain' on World Cup BBCTrump confirms he asked Infantino for review of Folarin Balogun red card The GuardianUEFA statement on the Balogun case UEFA.comFifa ‘crossed a red line’ by reversing US star striker’s suspension, Uefa says Financial Times
2 months agoPresident Trump's inquiry with FIFA President Gianni Infantino into the penalty drawn by Team USA player Folarin Balogun has caused a furor in the soccer world, just ahead of the huge round of 16 matchup between Team USA and Belgium. FIFA's independent board reversed the red card suspension of Balogun on Sunday, after which it...
3 months agoPresident Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss U.S. Men's National Team scorer Folarin Balogun's red card suspension match, sources say. CBS News' Olivia Rinaldi reports.
3 months agoBRUSSELS, Belgium (AFP) — FIFA's decision to overturn United States (US) striker Folarin Balogun's suspension is "incomprehensible", Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot said on Monday, hours before Belgium's World Cup Last 16 match against the United States. "If a phone call is really the reason for this incomprehensible decision, it would be a blatant violation of the most basic rules of football and sport," the minister said in a statement. "That would be very serious. How could FIFA still credibly plead fair play?" Belgium Prime Minister Bart De Wever has not commented but appeared to get the claws out through his cat Maximus' official Instagram account. "Red card? I'm still going to play!" Maximus quipped in a caption on a post showing him with a red card close to his paws. When contacted by AFP to ask if the premier intended to respond himself, his communications team referred to Maximus' Instagram post. Balogun, who has scored three goals at the World Cup, had been set to miss the clash in Seattle after receiving a straight red card following a video review for stepping on a Bosnia-Herzegovina defender's foot in the round-of-32 match the US won 2-0. Under FIFA rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban. US President Donald Trump called FIFA chief Gianni Infantino asking him to review Balogun's punishment, two sources familiar with the matter told AFP.
3 months agoThe red card shown to US national team striker, Folarin Balogun, during the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 of the World Cup became one of the most controversial incidents of the tournament. It spilled over from the pitch to reach the White House, before culminating in an exceptional decision by […] By Alaa Shamali
3 months agoEurope's soccer governing body and prominent commentators have criticized the decision, which allows Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium.
3 months agoFIFA's unprecedented decision sparked huge furore in football world.
3 months agoEuropean football body UEFA has lashed out at FIFA’s decision to suspend US striker Folarin Balogun’s red-card ban in the World Cup, after American President Donald Trump called FIFA to ask it to review the case, saying world football’s governing body had “crossed a red line” and undermined the integrity of the game. “We express our disbelief at such an unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable decision,” UEFA said in a statement on Monday. “When the certainty of rules is no longer guaranteed by its guardians, the integrity of the game is at stake, and the credibility of a competition is undermined.” Reuters has reached out to FIFA for comment. Balogun, who has scored three goals for the US in the tournament, was sent off after a VAR review for dragging his cleats down the back of defender Tarik Muharemovic’s leg and onto his foot during their win over Bosnia in the round of 32. Trump had asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review Balogun’s red card, which would have automatically suspended the player from Monday’s round of 16 clash with Belgium. FIFA suspended the implementation of the ban for a probationary period of one year, however, without rescinding the red card. The stunning move has thrust FIFA’s disciplinary process into the spotlight and prompted an angry response from the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA), which said it was “astonished” by FIFA’s decision. The Athletic reported that the RBFA has written to FIFA to lodge an appeal in the matter.
3 months agoGoverning body lifted a one-match ban given to US striker Folarin Balogun after a phone call from Donald Trump
3 months agoU.S. star striker Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension is overturned — after Trump calls FIFA.
3 months agoOne of the few certainties of World Cup football has been rocked after Donald Trump lobbied FIFA to overturn a US red card suspension. The decision has caused outrage but it isn't completely without precedent.
3 months agoEuropean soccer body UEFA has lashed out at FIFA’s decision to suspend U.S. striker Folarin Balogun’s red-card ban in the World Cup, after U.S. President Donald Trump called FIFA to ask it to review the case, saying world soccer’s governing body had “crossed a red line” and undermined the integrity of the game. “We express […]
3 months agoUEFA says FIFA 'crossed a red line' with Folarin Balogun red-card-ban U-turn ESPNTrump confirms he asked Fifa to review Balogun ban BBCHate us for it if you want, but the U.S. did what was necessary for Folarin Balogun’s return The New York TimesFifa’s red card scandal crosses ‘Rubicon’ on to the pitch Financial TimesTrump confirms he asked Infantino for review of Folarin Balogun red card The Guardian
3 months agoFifa’s decision to lift Folarin Balogun’s red card ban, following a call from President Donald Trump, sparks controversy just before the US faces Belgium at the World Cup.
3 months agoFifa's suspension of Folarin Balogun's red-card ban after a call from the US president has thrust the relationship between football's governing body and political power into the spotlight.
3 months agoJuly 6 – UEFA has added a voice from the corridors of world football power to the worldwide criticism of FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino’s decision to overturn the one-match automatic suspension for the red card given to USA forward Folarin Balogun, saying that it “crossed a red line”. The FIFA decision means Balogun can play tonight in the USA’s Round of 16 match against Belgium. “Football, like any other sports, Read more … The post ‘Unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable’. UEFA slams FIFA’s Balogun red card reversal appeared first on Inside World Football.
3 months agoStriker may still be able to play in last-16 game in SeattleTrump lobbied Fifa three times over Balogun’s red cardThe Folarin Balogun controversy has taken a dramatic twist with Belgium granted an appeal against the United States striker’s shock reinstatement for Monday’s last-16 tie in Seattle. There are no guarantees, however, over when the decision will be made or whether Fifa’s reasoning for lifting his suspension will be made public.The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) expressed “astonishment” on Sunday at Fifa’s decision to rescind Balogun’s one-match ban, with their manager, Rudi Garcia, comparing it to an April Fool’s Day joke. Donald Trump repeatedly lobbied Fifa to lift Balogun’s ban, with sources telling the Guardian the US president made three calls to Fifa, starting on Wednesday, after Balogun was sent off in the USA’s 2-0 last-16 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, to ensure the change was made. Continue reading...
3 months agoFormer FIFA president Joseph Blatter has condemned alleged influence of United States president Donald Trump in having a red card suspension for American World Cup player Folarin Balogun suspended by the ruling football body. "Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls.
3 months agoThe world of football has been left stunned after the USA talisman Folarin Balogun's straight red was wiped out
3 months agoFIFA says they will permit him to play, but will not revoke the red card after Trump personally urged Infantino to reconsider the case
3 months agoJuly 6 – In an unprecedented decision, FIFA have reversed the red-card suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun for tonight’s round of 16 tie against Belgium following lobbying by US President Donald Trump. According to media reports, Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to demand the world governing body review the suspension of the US top scorer – and FIFA duly obliged. A red card leads to an automatic one-match suspension with no appeal. Read more … The post FIFA angers football world with rule breaking reversal of Balogun red card after Trump calls Infantino appeared first on Inside World Football.
3 months agoHis suspension was lifted after Donald Trump’s intervention
3 months agoFolarin Balogun has been cleared to face Belgium after Fifa suspended his automatic one-match ban, prompting an angry response from Belgian football officials.
3 months agoThe reversal of Folarin Balogun’s World Cup suspension is highly unusual. It was the first time since 1962 that FIFA has nullified a suspension for a red card received during the World Cup.
3 months agoFIFA's controversial decision to lift Folarin Balogun's red card suspension for the US vs Belgium match has sparked outrage. Belgium and other nations question tournament integrity, while the US celebrates the reprieve. President Trump lauded the move as correcting a "great injustice." This unprecedented intervention, citing a probationary period, allows the US star to play, but raises serious questions about fair play and future disciplinary actions.
3 months agoFIFA declared suspended U.S. striker Folarin Balogun eligible to play following what looks like an intervention from U.S. President Donald Trump
3 months agoIn its statement, FIFA pointed to "article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code" which allows the suspension to be "suspended for a probationary period of one year."
3 months agoThe United States’ World Cup campaign took an extraordinary turn on Sunday when FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s automatic red-card ban, clearing the striker to face Belgium in Monday’s last-16 clash after U.S. President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case. The move thrust FIFA’s disciplinary […]
3 months agoFIFA cleared US star Folarin Balogun to play in a World Cup match against Belgium following a personal appeal by President Donald Trump, a rare suspension of an automatic punishment that sparked outrage among competing teams. Bloomberg's David Ingles and Yvonne Man discuss the latest developments in the sport. (Source: Bloomberg)
3 months agoPresident Trump called FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, on Wednesday and asked him to review the suspension of the United States’ top goal scorer, Folarin Balogun at the 2026 World Cup. Balogun was shown a red card in their game that night against Bosnia and Herzegovina. According to the New York Times, people familiar with the conversation between […] 2026 World Cup: How Trump forced FIFA to overturn Balogun’s red card
3 months agoWASHINGTON/SEATTLE, July 5 (Reuters) - The United States’ World Cup campaign took an extraordinary turn on Sunday when FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s automatic red-card ban, clearing the striker to face Belgium in Monday’s last-16 clash after U.S. President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case.
3 months agoThe reversal of Folarin Balogun's World Cup suspension is highly unusual. It was the first time since 1962 that FIFA has nullified a suspension for a red card received during the World Cup
3 months agoUS coach Mauricio Pochettino has backed FIFA's controversial decision to lift Folarin Balogun's red card suspension, citing "ethics and integrity." The striker will now be available for the World Cup clash against Belgium. While President Trump praised the move, Belgium expressed astonishment and is considering legal action, questioning the precedent set by the ruling.
3 months agoFIFA announced Sunday that the suspension had been lifted for the round of 16 match, an extraordinary move that triggered praise from Trump and outrage from Belgium’s team
3 months agoUS President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding Folarin Balogun's red-card suspension at the 2026 World Cup, leading to an overturned ban.
3 months agoUS President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding Folarin Balogun's red-card suspension at the 2026 World Cup, leading to an overturned ban.
3 months agoThe United States World Cup campaign took an extraordinary turn on Sunday when FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s automatic red-card ban, clearing the striker to face Belgium in Monday’s last-16 clash after US President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case. The move thrust FIFA’s disciplinary process into the global spotlight, prompted an angry response from Belgium and ensured that one of this tournament’s biggest talking points would centre not on tactics or team selection, but on the relationship between football’s governing body and political power. Within minutes, the decision had ignited one of the tournament’s biggest media storms, dominating sports bulletins and talk shows as pundits, commentators and former players argued over whether FIFA had upheld justice or undermined its own rules. As questions mounted over the circumstances surrounding the decision, FIFA did not respond to multiple Reuters requests for comment about the decision and Trump’s call with Infantino. Balogun scored his third goal of the World Cup in the 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina but was shown a red card in the second half for planting his boot into the ankle of Tarik Muharemovic. The 25-year-old was sent off after a VAR review, with US coach Mauricio Pochettino saying it was never a red card offence. Trump called Infantino to ask world soccer’s governing body to review the sending-off, according to a source briefed on the call. FIFA is allowing Balogun to play without rescinding the red card. “In line with article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” FIFA said in a statement. “If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.” The judicial body has the discretion to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary sanction. ‘A great injustice’ “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice,” Trump wrote on Truth Social while the White House celebrated Balogun’s reinstatement in the squad with a post on X saying: “USA-USA-USA”. US Soccer accepted the decision while Balogun’s teammates said they only found out via social media on their way to training ahead of Monday’s game in Seattle. “We found out about it just coming over here,” American forward Christian Pulisic told reporters. “At first, you’re like, ‘Oh really, is this real?’ And then ‘Oh, this is great news’.” Pochettino welcomed the news at a US press conference in Seattle on Sunday evening. “I think 99.9 per cent of people in football have said this is an unfair punishment and there’s evidence from the past that makes it possible to suspend a punishment and to fulfil it later on, so I don’t understand how people can be surprised,” he told reporters. “This has happened in the past. It’s not something extraordinary that has only happened for us, it has happened in the past. And we’ve seen many players in this World Cup that were not punished and I’m happy for this because it would have been unfair.” Belgium ‘astonished’ by decision The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) said it was “astonished” by FIFA’s decision to declare Balogun eligible to play in the match, pointing to the rule book while it investigated all potential options. “FIFA bases its decision on Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This provision states that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee may decide to suspend the enforcement of a previously imposed disciplinary sanction,” the RBFA said. “However, Article 66.4 of the same FIFA Disciplinary Code clearly provides that a red card (sending-off) automatically results in a suspension for the team’s next match, as has been the case for all previous red cards issued during this FIFA World Cup.” It said the decision was in direct contradiction with the provisions of the tournament’s Regulations. “As set out in Article 10.5: ‘If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card (second caution), they will automatically be suspended from their team’s subsequent match,’” the RBFA added. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was able to play his side’s opening World Cup matches after FIFA suspended the final two games of a three-match ban last year when he was sent off in their penultimate qualifying match against Ireland. Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo was handed a five-match ban after receiving a red card for a tackle that seriously injured Canada midfielder Ismael Kone during a group match at the tournament. Monday’s match will now be played against the backdrop of a decision that has become one of the defining controversies of the tournament, with the debate over FIFA’s powers unlikely to end at the final whistle
3 months agoFIFA’s decision to allow the previously suspended US striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium has left the football world astounded.
3 months agoFIFA’s decision to allow the previously suspended US striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium has left the football world astounded.
3 months agoFIFA’s decision to allow the previously suspended US striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium has left the football world astounded.
3 months agoDonald Trump celebrated FIFA’s decision to clear USMNT star Folarin Balogun for the World Cup knockout match against Belgium, calling The Donald Trump Hails FIFA For USMNT Red Card U-Turn first appeared on The Blast
3 months agoLOS ANGELES, United States — FIFA cleared US star striker Folarin Balogun to play in the World Cup co-hosts’ showdown with Belgium despite his red-card ban after a personal phone call from President Donald Trump, it emerged Sunday, igniting a furious row that has rocked the tournament. Balogun had been set to miss Monday’s last-16 knockout clash with the Belgians after receiving a straight red card following video review for stepping on the foot of a Bosnian defender in a round-of-32 clash that the US won 2-0. READ: World Cup: Norway beats Brazil with Haaland’s brace, reaches quarters Under FIFA rules, […]...Keep on reading: World Cup red card U-turn: FIFA clears US star Balogun after Trump call
3 months agoFIFA's recent decision to rescind Folarin Balogun's red card has sparked controversy, enabling the US talent to compete against Belgium. This unusual action came after US President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Belgium has expressed outrage and is seeking legal recourse. Meanwhile, the US coach supported the outcome, emphasizing the previous challenges faced by his team. Balogun's participation revives American aspirations for the quarter-finals.
3 months agoFIFA's recent decision to rescind Folarin Balogun's red card has sparked controversy, enabling the US talent to compete against Belgium. This unusual action came after US President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Belgium has expressed outrage and is seeking legal recourse. Meanwhile, the US coach supported the outcome, emphasizing the previous challenges faced by his team. Balogun's participation revives American aspirations for the quarter-finals.
3 months agoFolarin Balogun’s one-game ban has been surprisingly lifted by FIFA, clearing the American forward to play in the team’s World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium.
3 months agoFolarin Balogun’s one-game ban has been surprisingly lifted by FIFA, clearing the American forward to play in the team’s World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium.
3 months agoFolarin Balogun’s one-game ban has been surprisingly lifted by FIFA, clearing the American forward to play in the team’s World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium.
3 months agoUnder FIFA rules, a red card automatically triggers a one-match ban that cannot be appealed.
3 months agoDonald Trump called FIFA to help ensure Folarin Balogun could play against Belgium (Picture: Getty) Details of the phone call that Donald Trump made to FIFA president Gianni Infantino in an effort to get Folarin Balogun’s World Cup ban lifted have emerged. The USA striker, who has scored three goals at the tournament, was dismissed during the second half of the co-hosts’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, but on Sunday the FIFA Disciplinary Committee announced it would suspend Balogun’s one-match ban by a probationary period of one year.While Mauricio Pochettino will now benefit from an unprecedented U-turn that will allow him to select one of his main attacking weapons, USA’s last 16 opponents Belgium are justifiably furious.Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia likened the ruling to ‘April Fool’s Day’ and insisted his federation, who may yet appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, was ‘defending football’. Don't miss a World Cup moment England's hero (Picture:Getty) What a rollercoaster this has been. Make sense of the drama with Metro's free daily newsletter, featuring England updates, match previews and exclusive analysis. Sign up now. Trump and Infantino’s relationship has been under scrutiny ever since the American president was handed the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize back in December.Having kept a relatively low-profile during the tournament thus far, Trump appears to have wielded his considerable influence and pressured FIFA into temporarily lifting Balogun’s one-game ban.According to talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs, it was communicated directly to the Infantino that Trump felt the punishment was unjust, whileother White House figures are also understood to have lobbied football’s world governing body. Folarin Balogun was sent-off in USA’s win against Bosnia (Picture: Getty) ‘The President and Infantino did speak, and the President wanted to better understand the reason why a red card was given and why there was a suspension,’ a US official confirmed.‘The appeal process is run by an independent board. The US government provided additional evidence that was used in the appeal process.’According to FIFA’s disciplinary code, meanwhile, should Balogun commit ‘another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement’. Mauricio Pochettino will now be free to select Folarin Balogun against Belgium (Picture: Getty) The RBFA claimed the decision was in violation of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Competition Regulations, also citing a separate section of the governing body’s disciplinary code.It added: ‘“’In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options.’Pochettino said he ‘wasn’t involved’ in the decision, and ‘found out today before training’, claiming he ‘didn’t have time’ to see President Trump’s remarks on social media but that his federation was ‘working really hard and trying to defend our situation’. Donald Trump won FIFA’s inaugural peace prize (Picture: Getty) He added: ‘My reaction is like everyone. I really love the sport, and trust the ethic and integrity. I think we all celebrate that decision.’Asked about President Trump’s rumoured involvement, the former Tottenham boss insisted: ‘You cannot mix that. It is a decision from FIFA.’With the integrity of the competition now under the microscope, Gary Neville branded FIFA’s decision as shameful and hinted US soccer chiefs could urge Pochettino to leave Balogun on the bench but that suggestion was dismissed by his fellow ITV pundit Ian Wright.‘I’m not sure if they’ve got the balls to do that [not play Balogun anyway],’ he said. ‘They are not going to do that with Trump. ‘They can’t embarrass him like that. If he’s involved in it. There’s no way they are going to do that.’ Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
3 months agoThe Royal Belgian Football Association said it was "astonished" by FIFA's decision, pointing to the rule book while it investigated all potential options.
3 months agoThe surprise move deeming the US striker eligible to play came after the American president reached out to the governing body to appeal for the changeDonald Trump has been conspicuous by his absence so far at the World Cup, but unusually he may have been making his presence felt behind the scenes with some quiet diplomacy.In addition to failing to attend a game, despite the USA’s impressive progress to the last 16, Trump had not mentioned the tournament on social media since offering some bland recognition of record attendance figures on 28 June. All that changed on Sunday when he took to Truth Social to thank Fifa for its highly unusual decision to overturnsuspend striker Folarin Balogun’s suspensionban from Monday’s last-16 tie against Belgium. Continue reading...
3 months agoWorld Cup 2026: Balogun decision leaves red card system in disarray BBCAstonished Belgium vow to ‘defend football’ after Fifa’s shock Balogun reversal The GuardianWorld Cup’s integrity in tatters after jaw-dropping Fifa intervention The TelegraphFIFA has stepped in to make banned USA striker Folarin Balogun available for the World Cup last-16 tie with Belgium. Sky SportsFifa reverses suspension of star US striker after call from Trump Financial Times
3 months agoUS President Donald Trump reportedly called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review and reverse Folarin Balogun’s World Cup red card suspension. Read mor Read More: https://punchng.com/trump-called-fifa-chief-to-review-baloguns-red-card-report/
3 months agoFIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's one-match ban just hours before the United States' FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Belgium has sparked a massive backlash online. Balogun had initially received a one-match ban following his dismissal during the United States' FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. FIFA later suspended the sanction, making him available for the Americans' next match. The reversal quickly became one of the tournament's biggest talking points. Reports further emerged of 'political intervention' with White House getting in touch with president Gianni Infantino to review the decision. FIFA meanwhile have maintained that the decision was reached by an independent committee and had not intervention whatsoever. Donald Trump on Folarin Balogun red card case: “Thank you to Fifa for doing what was right and reversing a great injustice”. pic.twitter.com/u2iOBk8LL4— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 5, 2026 The decision was celebrated by United States President Donald Trump, who publicly thanked FIFA after Balogun's suspension was lifted. The White House also appeared to welcome the outcome, posting "USA USA USA" on its official X account shortly after FIFA confirmed the decision.While USMNT can celebrate, the decision by FIFA and the potential White House intervention was not appreciated among netizens. Several called out FIFA for their biasedness towards the host nation USA. FIFA President Gianni Infantino is known to be great friends with USA president Donald Trump and fans alleged that the FIFA chief had pulled in a massive favour against the laws of the game. This is probably the biggest scandal in World Cup history.USA striker Folarin Balogun committed this outrageous foul against Bosnia and was shown a straight red card… but here’s where it gets crazy.The White House publicly contacted FIFA and the tournament organizers, asking… pic.twitter.com/i236kroQtl— Appie Culé (@appiecule) July 5, 2026 Btw, this is the red card Balogun was shown...Come on, tell me he didn't deserve it and that the game against Belgium should have been called off. Trump's conflict of interest here is huge, and his close relationship with Infantino... I don't know, something smells really… https://t.co/NVFWDkv66F— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) July 5, 2026 This is why Folarin Balogun got a straight red card and one-game ban. He almost broke Tarik Muharemovic's ankle.The people who are saying this isn’t a red or calling it injustice are ridiculous. pic.twitter.com/gpEWc5R4zp— Mukhtar (@I_amMukhtar) July 5, 2026 How will you overrule a Red card for a foul like this by Folarin Balogun Donald Trump at it again pic.twitter.com/nKeOuvE5wF— Ephraimatic (@__Ephraimatic) July 5, 2026 How is this red card reversed?FIFA’s corruption is impossible to ignore.USA’s Balogun will be available for the World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium after FIFA overturned his red card suspension and cleared him to play.Look at what he did to the other player! pic.twitter.com/FZIwRFBJWi— Suppressed News. (@SuppressedNws1) July 5, 2026 Just end the torunament now. This is disgraceful! #FIFAWorldCup https://t.co/No4WstsXb0— Bosnian Football (@BosniaNTBall) July 5, 2026 'Trump Has This Guy In His Pocket': Did White House Call FIFA To Overturn Folarin Balogun's Ban?'Thank You, FIFA': Donald Trump Reacts After Folarin Balogun's Red Card Reversed Ahead Of USA Vs Belgium ClashFIFA World Cup 2026: Why Was USA Star Folarin Balogun's One-Match Ban Overturned?Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the United States' 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Referee Raphael Claus initially produced a yellow card before upgrading it to a straight red after reviewing the challenge on the pitch-side VAR monitor.A straight red is grounds for an automatic ban, meaning Balogun should not have been in line to feature against Belgium. However, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee used Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code to suspend the execution of the sanction rather than overturn the dismissal itself.Under the FIFA ruling, Balogun has now been placed on a one-year probation. If he commits a similar disciplinary offence during that period, the suspended ban can still be activated in addition to any fresh punishment.
3 months agoFIFA reversed a ban against Team USA’s star striker Folarin Balogun, who was set to sit out Monday’s game over a controversial red card. President Trump called FIFA’s president last week and asked him to review the red card according to a source familiar with the phone call. NBC News’ Dana Griffin reports.
3 months agoThe USA star forward will play in Monday's round of 16 game against Belgium in Seattle.
3 months agoReports suggest that President Donald Trump asked FIFA to review USMNT star player Folarin Balogun's suspension following a questionable red card. The post Reports: Trump Asked FIFA to Review USMNT Star Player Folarin Balogun’s Red Card Suspension appeared first on Breitbart.
3 months agoReuters The United States’ World Cup campaign took an extraordinary turn on Sunday when FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s automatic red-card ban, clearing the striker to face Belgium in Monday’s last-16 clash after U.S. President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case. The move thrust FIFA’s disciplinary process […] The post Trump intervention sparks World Cup storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.
3 months agoUS President Donald Trump reportedly called Gianni Infantino to ask him to lift Falorin Balogun's red card ban to allow him to play against Belgium. The Belgian FA has called the decision "astonishing."
3 months agoThe US received a major World Cup boost after FIFA ruled Folarin Balogun eligible to face Belgium, suspending the immediate enforcement of his red card suspension.
3 months agoBelgium cries foul after decision to drop red card against Folarin Balogun clears him to play World Cup match
3 months ago"Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump said in a statement on social media.
3 months agoThe ruling body FIFA has suspended a suspension of United States national team striker Folarin Balogun which makes him eligible to play against Belgium in the World Cup last 16 on Monday. The decision was welcomed by the US team and the nation's president, Donald Trump, while Belgium said they were "astonished" by the ruling and were "investigating all potential options.
3 months agoThe Monaco forward, who has scored three goals at the tournament, was dismissed for his challenge on Tarik Muharemovic.
3 months agoUS President Donald Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino and asked him to review the World Cup suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun, a source familiar with the matter said on Sunday. FIFA later lifted Balogun's one-match ban, clearing him to face Belgium in the last 16 after his red card against Bosnia.
3 months agoThe Belgian FA reacted with ‘astonishment’ at the news that USA will be able to call upon their banned star striker for the last-16 tie
3 months agoPresident Donald Trump on Sunday thanked FIFA for suspending Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban and allowing the U.S. striker to play in the World Cup co-hosts’ last-16 showdown against Belgium. Balogun had been set to miss Monday’s match after controversially being shown a straight red card following a VAR review in the last-32 game against Bosnia-Herzegovina […]
3 months agoBalogun had been sent off for inadvertently treading on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic in the USA's 2-0 victory on Wednesday.
3 months agoUnder Fifa rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban, which cannot be appealed by the player's team.
3 months agoTrump called FIFA boss Gianni Infantino to review the suspension of US soccer star Folarin Balogun — now eligible to play after a shocking ruling, per the NYT. The post Trump Personally Called FIFA Boss Gianni Infantino to Appeal on Behalf of US Soccer Star: Report first appeared on Mediaite.
3 months agoTrump’s Fifa phone call helps overturn Balogun ban The TelegraphMauricio Pochettino praises Fifa for Balogun U-turn: ‘We all celebrate the decision’ The GuardianBelgians weigh Folarin Balogun as “darling of the match” in which he didn’t play PoliticoWhatever USA achieve now, this World Cup will carry an asterisk The TimesPochettino defends controversial FIFA decision to suspend Balogun’s red card ban The New York Times
3 months agoUS striker Folarin Balogun is free to play Belgium despite being shown a red card in his last match, a shock decision which delights Donald Trump and "astonishes" the Belgians.
3 months agoThe ruling body FIFA has suspended a suspension of United States national team striker Folarin Balogun which makes him eligible to play against Belgium in the World Cup last 16 on Monday. The decision was welcomed by the US team and the nation's president, Donald Trump, while Belgium said they were "astonished" by the ruling they may appeal.
3 months agoTrump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday and asked him to review Balogun’s suspension.
3 months agoPresident Donald Trump reached out to FIFA president Gianni Infantino directly to ask him to review the suspension of U.S. men’s national team breakout star Folarin Balogun.
3 months ago“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” Donald Trump said in a social media post after the decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red card from a previous match was confirmed.
3 months ago“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” Donald Trump said in a social media post after the decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red card from a previous match was confirmed.
3 months ago“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” Donald Trump said in a social media post after the decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red card from a previous match was confirmed.
3 months agoPresident Donald Trump called Gianni Infantino to ask for a review of the red card on Folarin Balogun, who can now play against Belgium on Monday night, a source told Fox News.
3 months agoPresident Donald Trump has hailed FIFA’s decision to suspend a one-match ban for a US forward, Folarin Balogun. It is a move which has further fuelled allegations of cronyism between Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Balogun is now available to face Belgium in the last 16 despite being sent off against Bosnia. Moments after […] 2026 World Cup: Trump speaks on FIFA’s shock decision to reverse Balogun’s red card
3 months agoTrump reportedly spoke with FIFA president Gianni Infantino before the organization suspended a U.S. player's red card.
3 months agoDonald Trump welcomed FIFA's decision to suspend Balogun's World Cup ban, allowing the US striker to face Belgium after the disciplinary committee's decision.
3 months agoOn Sunday, FIFA unexpectedly suspended the mandatory one-match ban stemming from Balogun's recent red card, providing a massive boost to the USMNT.
3 months agoOn Sunday, FIFA unexpectedly suspended the mandatory one-match ban stemming from Balogun's recent red card, providing a massive boost to the USMNT.
3 months agoGoverning body ruled the striker's ban will be suspended for a year, in a surprise move for which no specific explanation was offered
3 months agoWASHINGTON, United States (AFP)—United States (US) President Donald Trump on Sunday thanked FIFA for suspending Folarin Balogun's one-match ban and allowing the US striker to play in the World Cup co-hosts' last-16 showdown against Belgium. Balogun had been set to miss Monday's match after controversially being shown a straight red card following a VAR review in the last-32 game against Bosnia-Herzegovina for stepping on the foot of defender Tarik Muharemovic as the US won 2-0. Under FIFA rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban, which cannot be appealed by the player's team. But football governing body FIFA said Sunday the ban will now be suspended for a year, in a surprise move for which no specific explanation was offered. "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. Balogun has been key to the USA's progress in the tournament and his absence against Belgium would have been a blow to the team in the game in Seattle. He has netted three times for the US this World Cup, including his brace in the opener against Paraguay. US coach Mauricio Pochettino said Balogun should "never" have received a red card for the incident, insisting his player had simply been "fighting for the ball" and the contact was not intentional. Pochettino said at the time it "should be fair" to appeal the decision. But after being informed a FIFA spokesman had said the ban could not be appealed, the US coach had appeared to accept he would have to consider "different options" to lead his team's attack against Belgium. Balogun himself told reporters on Friday the red card ban was "something I have to just accept" and that he was focused on simply supporting his teammates from the stands. The decision to suspend the ban was taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee. FIFA's decision came after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had called for the card to be rescinded. - 'Boost' - "In line with article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year," a FIFA statement said. "If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement." There is some precedent for the decision. Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off against Ireland for an elbow during a qualifying match for this World Cup. The subsequent three-game ban meant the five-time Ballon d'Or winner was due to miss the opening two games of the 2026 World Cup. But FIFA let him off the hook by suspending two matches of his ban. Balogun's teammates on Sunday welcomed the move. "Obviously for us it gives us a boost," star forward Christian Pulisic told reporters in Seattle at training, The Athletic reported. "We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow," said US Soccer in a statement. "Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans."
3 months agoFolarin Balogun was surprisingly cleared by FIFA to play for the United States Men's National Team in the World Cup against Belgium on Monday.
3 months agoFolarin Balogun’s one-game ban was surprisingly suspended by FIFA, clearing the US forward to play in the team’s World Cup round of 16 match, a decision that was praised by President Donald Trump.
3 months agoDonald Trump thanked FIFA after it overturned Folarin Balogun’s red-card ban, calling it a reversal of a “great injustice”.
3 months agoFIFA has once again courted controversy after a report claimed the White House directly contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to seek a review of Folarin Balogun's red card. While the governing body later suspended the striker's one-match ban, FIFA has insisted the decision was taken solely by its independent disciplinary committee and was not influenced by political intervention.Balogun had initially received a one-match ban following his dismissal during the United States' FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. FIFA later suspended the sanction, making him available for the Americans' next match. The reversal quickly became one of the tournament's biggest talking points. Exclusive: The White House made a direct call to FIFA to ask Gianni Infantino to review Folarin Balogun’s red card.FIFA approached for comment and referred to the findings of its independent committee.FIFA sources insist White House influence could not affect the decision… pic.twitter.com/Rl97b1wm4X— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 5, 2026 As per journalist Ben Jacobs, the White House made a direct approach to Infantino requesting that FIFA revisit the disciplinary decision. Balogun has scored in every game he has played for the host country at the World Cup and his absence would have been a huge blow for the United States. FIFA sources stressed that external influence could not have affected the outcome because disciplinary matters are handled by an independent panel. They pointed to Article 27, which grants the committee autonomy to review and decide disciplinary cases without interference from FIFA's leadership or outside parties.Hosting the World Cup comes with some privileges.— Henry (@AKOJIHENRY) July 5, 2026 lol trump has this guy in his pocket that’s clearly lol he just needs to say jump and infantino would ask “how high”? — Sporgazine (@Sportzz1) July 5, 2026 USA-USA-USA https://t.co/yKnJxew9tU pic.twitter.com/75KmExgrUJ— The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 5, 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Was USA Star Folarin Balogun's One-Match Ban Overturned?'Thank You, FIFA': Donald Trump Reacts After Folarin Balogun's Red Card Reversed Ahead Of USA Vs Belgium ClashThe decision was celebrated by United States President Donald Trump, who publicly thanked FIFA after Balogun's suspension was lifted. The White House also appeared to welcome the outcome, posting "USA USA USA" on its official X account shortly after FIFA confirmed the decision.
3 months agoUSMNT’S top scorer at the World Cup, Folarin Balogun, has been cleared to play against Belgium in the round of 16. FIFA is suspending the one-game suspension he received after a straight red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which gives Mauricio Pochettino’s side a welcome boost as they look to push on towards July 19th.
3 months agoUSA president Donald Trump is rarely shy on social media and he’s very vocal after FIFA reversed Folarin Balogun’s World Cup red card. Soccer fans are taking to the internet questioning FIFA’s decision, and even claiming corruption from Gianni Infantino…
3 months agoThe United States received a major boost ahead of its FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Belgium after FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's automatic one-match ban, allowing the striker to feature in the knockout fixture. Balogun had been sent off in the 64th minute of the United States' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. A straight red is grounds for an automatic ban, meaning Balogun should not have been in line to feature against Belgium. However, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee used Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code to suspend the execution of the sanction rather than overturn the dismissal itself.Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP( TS: Jul 5 2026, 1:14 PM ET ) pic.twitter.com/rHJRnc8hto— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) July 5, 2026 Why was Balogun banned?Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the United States' 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Referee Raphael Claus initially produced a yellow card before upgrading it to a straight red after reviewing the challenge on the pitch-side VAR monitor.The dismissal sparked immediate debate, with US head coach Mauricio Pochettino arguing that the Arsenal academy graduate's challenge on Tarik Muharemovic was accidental and did not warrant a sending-off. Under the FIFA ruling, Balogun has now been placed on a one-year probation. If he commits a similar disciplinary offence during that period, the suspended ban can still be activated in addition to any fresh punishment. The decision is considered highly unusual, as players shown a straight red card at the World Cup almost always serve an automatic one-match suspension.'Thank You, FIFA': Donald Trump Reacts After Folarin Balogun's Red Card Reversed Ahead Of USA Vs Belgium ClashHas this happened before?'The ruling has attracted widespread attention because FIFA did not erase the red card—it merely suspended the automatic one-match ban. The distinction is important: Balogun remains officially sent off for the Bosnia and Herzegovina match, but the punishment has been deferred under probationary conditions.Such interventions are rare during the World Cup and highlight the discretionary powers available to FIFA's Disciplinary Committee in exceptional cases. The last high-profile use of FIFA’s Article 27 suspension mechanism came in Cristiano Ronaldo’s disciplinary case. The Portugal captain was sent off during Portugal's World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland after elbowing defender Dara O'Shea. The red card earned him a three-match suspension for violent conduct. Ronaldo served the mandatory one-match ban in Portugal's final qualifier against Armenia, but FIFA's Disciplinary Committee suspended the remaining two matches under a one-year probation period. Had it not been suspended, Ronaldo would have missed Portugal's opening two World Cup 2026 matches.
3 months agoPresident Trump on Sunday hailed FIFA’s decision to reverse a red card handed to Team USA’s Folarin Balogun during the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The red card would have marked a one-game suspension for the USA’s 25-year-old star athlete, leaving him absent from Monday's match against Belgium. “Thank you to FIFA for doing what...
3 months agoEl presidente de Estados Unidos, Donald Trump, se pronunció públicamente tras la decisión de la FIFA de habilitar al delantero Folarin Balogun para el partido de octavos de final del Mundial 2026 contra Bélgica. Balogun había recibido una controvertida tarjeta roja en la victoria de la USMNT por 2-0 ante Bosnia y Herzegovina en la […] La entrada Donald Trump agradeció a la FIFA por revertir la suspensión de Folarin Balogun se publicó primero en Studiofutbol.
3 months agoDonald Trump on Sunday afternoon thanked FIFA after it suspended a one-match ban for U.S. star Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in Monday's Last 16 matchup against Belgium. "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump posted on Truth Social. POLITICO has contacted FIFA to ask whether the Trump administration lobbied to reverse Balogun's suspension, after he received a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
3 months agoThe ruling has attracted widespread attention because FIFA did not erase the red card—it merely suspended the automatic one-match ban. The distinction is important: Balogun remains officially sent off for the Bosnia and Herzegovina match, but the punishment has been deferred under probationary conditions.Such interventions are rare during the World Cup and highlight the discretionary powers available to FIFA's Disciplinary Committee in exceptional cases. The last high-profile use of FIFA’s Article 27 suspension mechanism came in Cristiano Ronaldo’s disciplinary case.The ruling has attracted widespread attention because FIFA did not erase the red card—it merely suspended the automatic one-match ban. The distinction is important: Balogun remains officially sent off for the Bosnia and Herzegovina match, but the punishment has been deferred under probationary conditions.Such interventions are rare during the World Cup and highlight the discretionary powers available to FIFA's Disciplinary Committee in exceptional cases. The last high-profile use of FIFA’s Article 27 suspension mechanism came in Cristiano Ronaldo’s disciplinary case.US President Donald Trump publicly thanked FIFA after the world governing body suspended Folarin Balogun's automatic one-match ban, clearing the striker to play in the United States' FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Trump's message came shortly after FIFA confirmed that while Balogun's red card would remain on his disciplinary record, the accompanying suspension had been deferred under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, placing the forward on a one-year probation instead."Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP," he posted on Truth Social. Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP( TS: Jul 5 2026, 1:14 PM ET ) pic.twitter.com/rHJRnc8hto— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) July 5, 2026 Balogun had been sent off in the 64th minute of the United States' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 after referee Raphael Claus upgraded an initial yellow card to a straight red following a VAR review. The Arsenal academy graduate was adjudged to have committed serious foul play during a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic, although US coach Mauricio Pochettino insisted the contact was accidental and argued the punishment was excessive.FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Was USA Star Folarin Balogun's One-Match Ban Overturned?Fact Check: Donald Trump Shared Social Media Post Claiming FIFA President Gianni Infantino Was Detained? Here's The TruthThe ruling has attracted widespread attention because FIFA did not erase the red card—it merely suspended the automatic one-match ban. The distinction is important: Balogun remains officially sent off for the Bosnia and Herzegovina match, but the punishment has been deferred under probationary conditions.Such interventions are rare during the World Cup and highlight the discretionary powers available to FIFA's Disciplinary Committee in exceptional cases. The last high-profile use of FIFA’s Article 27 suspension mechanism came in Cristiano Ronaldo’s disciplinary case.
3 months agoFIFA's decision to allow Folarin Balogun to play in the United States' World Cup last-16 clash with Belgium has been welcomed by Donald Trump, while the Belgian Football Association said it was "astonished" and "investigating all potential options".
3 months agoDonald Trump has backed the decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s ban (Pictures: Getty) US President Donald Trump has thanked FIFA for acting as they made the controversial decision to suspend his one-game ban for receiving a red card at the World Cup. The Monaco forward was sent off during USA’s last 32 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina for a foul on Tarik Muharemovic. The one-game ban that comes with the offence was due to keep him out of the last 16 tie with Belgium, but he is now available to play after the ban was suspended. A FIFA statement on Sunday read: ‘In line with article 27 of the Fifa disciplinary code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” it said in a statement. Don't miss a World Cup moment England's hero (Picture:Getty) What a rollercoaster this has been. Make sense of the drama with Metro's free daily newsletter, featuring England updates, match previews and exclusive analysis. Sign up now. ‘If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.’ Trump has thanked FIFA for the move, posting on social media site Truth Social: ‘Thank you to Fifa for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP.’ Ben Jacobs reports that the White House made direct contact with FIFA, asking them to review the Balogun red card. The incident that led to a red card for Folarin Balogun.Correct decision? pic.twitter.com/bzgLMxKFgS— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) July 2, 2026 There is no mechanism to appeal red cards at the World Cup, so FIFA have not ‘reversed’ their decision, as Trump suggests. Instead they have just found a way to allow USA’s star striker to play in the huge match with Belgium in Seattle on Monday. FIFA used the same Article 27 to allow Cristiano Ronaldo to play in Portugal’s opening games at the World Cup this summer. Ronaldo was sent off against Republic of Ireland in November 2025, which warrants a three-game ban, but FIFA allowed him to serve one of those games and suspend the ban for the other two. Folarin Balogun has scored three goals at the World Cup (Picture: Getty Images) US Soccer said in a statement on Balogun’s ban being suspended: ‘We accept the decision of the disciplinary committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow. ‘Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans.’ USA manager Mauricio Pochettino will also be thrilled that his striker is available, having criticised the red card decision. ‘For me? Never a red card,’ Pochettino said. ‘Never an intention to step on the player. It was a normal action in football that happened by accident.’ Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
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