Belgian Football Association Challenges FIFA's Decision on Balogun's Eligibility

RBFA Opposes FIFA's Ruling on Balogun

The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has voiced its strong disapproval regarding FIFA's recent ruling that allows United States striker Folarin Balogun to participate in the upcoming Round of 16 match against Belgium in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The RBFA described this decision as unexpected and is currently exploring various options to safeguard its interests.

In a statement released on Sunday, the RBFA expressed its astonishment at FIFA's choice to permit Balogun, who is currently suspended, to play in the USA-Belgium match. The federation has raised questions about the legal grounds for this ruling.

While FIFA cited Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code, the Belgian association contended that other regulations clearly stipulate an automatic suspension following a red card.

The RBFA highlighted that Article 66.4 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code states that a red card results in an automatic suspension for the next match, a precedent that has been upheld throughout the tournament.

Additionally, the RBFA referred to Article 10.5 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Competition Regulations, which mandates that any player sent off due to a red card will be suspended for their team's next match.

The principle of automatic suspension was further emphasized in FIFA World Cup 2026 Circular No. 16, which was shared with member associations on May 12 and reiterated during pre-match coordination meetings.

The federation concluded its statement by indicating that it would evaluate its next steps, emphasizing the importance of protecting the rights of all participating teams and maintaining fair play principles in the tournament.

This controversy arose after FIFA announced that Balogun's automatic one-match suspension would be put on hold under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee stated, "By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year."

Balogun received a red card during the 64th minute of the United States' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. Despite being down to ten players, the co-hosts advanced to the last 16, with Balogun having netted three goals in the tournament.

The decision also elicited a quick response from United States President Donald Trump, who expressed gratitude to FIFA on Truth Social, stating, "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President Donald J. Trump."

Balogun is now anticipated to be available for the United States' match against Belgium in Seattle, where a spot in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals is on the line.