FIFA Reverses Balogun's Ban Amid Controversy

FIFA's recent decision to lift Folarin Balogun's one-match ban has ignited controversy, particularly as it was made without the input of key committee members. Balogun, who was penalized for a foul during a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, was allowed to play against Belgium, where the USA faced a significant defeat. Donald Trump has also entered the discussion, advocating for a review of the red card, asserting that the incident did not constitute a foul. This situation raises questions about the decision-making processes within FIFA and the influence of external figures in sports governance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 13, 2026, 10:47 IST

FIFA's Controversial Decision on Balogun

FIFA's recent choice to lift Folarin Balogun's suspension has sparked discussions, particularly as reports indicate that this decision was made without input from 17 committee members. Balogun received a one-match suspension for a serious foul during a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. According to FIFA regulations, appeals against red cards are typically not allowed. However, FIFA opted to lift his ban, permitting him to participate in the match against Belgium. Reports suggest that the chairman of the disciplinary committee, Mohammad al-Kamali, was responsible for this decision. Unfortunately for Balogun and the USA team, they faced a 1-4 defeat against Belgium in the round of 16, resulting in their exit from the tournament. Balogun commented on the situation, stating, "It’s certainly controversial when a decision is reversed. We accepted the initial ruling when I received the red card, and we also accepted the news that I could play. I wasn’t part of the decision-making process; it didn’t involve me personally."

Trump's Involvement in the Review

Donald Trump Discusses Balogun's Red Card with FIFA President

On July 6, Donald Trump addressed the media, revealing that he had spoken with FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding Balogun's red card, expressing his belief that the incident did not warrant a foul. Trump stated, "I merely requested a review because I didn’t perceive it as a foul. I didn’t instruct him on what to do; I can’t dictate his actions. I’ve never encountered anything like this before. I understand sports very well, having been an athlete myself." He further elaborated, "That wasn’t a foul. It was merely two athletes colliding at full speed. You can’t control your foot placement when moving at such velocity. These were two exceptional athletes who just got tangled up. If there had been a punch or a clear infraction, my perspective would be different." Following their match, Belgium, who eliminated the USA, faced defeat against Spain in the quarter-finals, while Spain is set to compete against France in the semi-finals.