FIFA lifted the USA suspension, clearing striker Folarin Balogun for Monday’s World Cup match against Belgium. The ruling followed Donald Trump’s direct call to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, reports the Baltimore Chronicle.
Balogun received a red card during the United States’ Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Video review showed the forward stepping on an opponent’s ankle during a challenge.
The dismissal normally carried an automatic one-match ban. FIFA instead placed that punishment under a one-year probation period.
Why FIFA Allowed Balogun To Face Belgium
FIFA applied Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code. The provision allows disciplinary sanctions to be suspended under specified conditions.
The decision means Balogun can play against Belgium in the Round of 16. However, another disciplinary offence could activate the suspended punishment.
The case developed through several key stages:
- Balogun was dismissed after a VAR review.
- U.S. Soccer challenged the severity of the decision.
- Trump contacted Infantino and requested another review.
- FIFA suspended the automatic one-match ban.
- Belgium questioned the ruling’s timing and transparency.
The ruling gives Mauricio Pochettino another attacking option for the knockout match. Balogun has scored three goals during the tournament, according to reports.
Trump Calls The Red Card A “Horrible” Decision
Trump publicly described the referee’s decision as “horrible.” He confirmed asking Infantino to examine the incident again.
The president denied ordering FIFA to reach a particular result. He said the final judgment remained with football’s governing body.
| Key issue | Confirmed development |
|---|---|
| Player | Folarin Balogun |
| Original penalty | Automatic one-match suspension |
| FIFA ruling | Ban suspended for one year |
| Next opponent | Belgium |
| Political involvement | Trump contacted Gianni Infantino |
The intervention transformed a disciplinary dispute into a political controversy. Critics questioned whether a national leader should influence an independent sporting process.
Belgium Questions FIFA’s Independence
The Belgian football federation expressed surprise and examined possible responses. UEFA representatives also warned about the precedent created by the ruling.
The controversy now extends beyond Balogun’s availability. It concerns equal treatment, FIFA’s independence and political access to its leadership.
The United States gained an important striker before a decisive match. FIFA, however, faces renewed scrutiny over how it applies disciplinary rules.
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