Trump Discusses Balogun's Suspension with FIFA President Ahead of World Cup Match

Trump's Conversation with FIFA President

On July 6, a U.S. official confirmed that President Donald Trump had a discussion with FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the suspension of Folarin Balogun during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The purpose of the conversation was to clarify the reasons behind the striker's red card and the subsequent one-match ban, which was later overturned by an independent appeal process.

The official stated, "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. The appeal process is run by an independent board. The U.S. government provided additional evidence that was used in the appeal process. Ultimately, the correct and proper outcome was achieved."

This confirmation followed FIFA's announcement that Balogun would be eligible to participate in the United States' Round of 16 match against Belgium, despite receiving a red card during the Americans' 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the previous round.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee declared on Sunday that the automatic suspension would not be enforced.

FIFA's statement noted, "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 in the 64th minute of the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina but had already made a significant impact in the tournament, scoring three goals.

Following FIFA's ruling, Trump expressed his gratitude on Truth Social, stating, "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President Donald J. Trump."

The decision has sparked considerable controversy, with Belgium's football federation challenging FIFA's interpretation of its disciplinary rules and considering all available legal options after Balogun was cleared to play.

For the United States, this ruling is a significant advantage as they prepare for the knockout match in Seattle. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino will have one of his key attacking players available as the co-hosts aim to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 2002.

The last encounter between the U.S. and Belgium in the World Cup was during the Round of 16 in Brazil in 2014, where the Americans were eliminated 2-1 after extra time, despite Tim Howard's remarkable 16-save performance.