THE HALFAX HEIMDALL AUGUR

What was said to Gianni Infantino as White House made direct call to ... Follow us on Google Discover Donald Trump has not been super involved in the World Cup in recent weeks, but he and his administration might have stepped in at a crucial moment for the USMNT. Folarin Balogun’s one-game ban for getting sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina has been suspended for a year, and just in time for the US’ round of 16 clash against Belgium. The decision was announced by FIFA on Sunday. There is precedent for such a decision, but there is also a growing belief that external factors — namely the Trump administration — had a part to play. That’s the claim now being made by Ben Jacobs. FIFA have suspended Folarin Balogun's red card ban for one year, meaning he will be available for USA vs Belgium! 😯 What's your reaction to the decision? 15 comments Comment Like or Comment Have your say Sign-in now for free The White House urged Gianni Infantino to review Folarin Balogun suspension Reporter Ben Jacobs revealed exclusively on X : “The White House made a direct call to FIFA to ask Gianni Infantino to review Folarin Balogun’s red card.” If that’s true, it marks yet another example of Infanti…

Trump takes credit for red card review but says FIFA made final call ... President Donald Trump said he called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to ask for a review of the red card issued to U.S. men’s national team striker Folarin Balogun, arguing the collision wasn’t a foul and calling the referee “very suspect.” Folarin Balogun 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. U.S. President Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino after the game asking FIFA review the red card, and then 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. (Produced by Luke Garratt) President Donald Trump speaks about FIFA after ringing the opening bell for the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq in the Oval Office at the White House, Monday, July 6, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) President Donald Trump smiles after ringing the opening bell for the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq in the Oval Office at the W…

FIFA makes unprecedented U-turn following Trump intervention to clear Balogun for US-Belgium World Cup clash <p>The United States World Cup campaign took an extraordinary turn on Sunday when FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/2012353">automatic red-card ban</a>, 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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>As questions mounted over the circumstances surrounding the decision, FIFA did not respond to multiple <em>Reuters</em> requests for com…

World Cup 2026: FIFA's Balohun decision will "send shockwaves through footbal" 🏆⚽"This is going to send shockwaves through football." Sport journalist Andreas Evagora assesses #FIFA's controversial decision to lift Folarin #Balogun's red card suspension after Trump's request for review. More on #F24Spotlight

Belgium loses appeal of Balogun eligibility after Trump intervention - CNBC FIFA's media account on Monday said the association had rejected an appeal by Belgian soccer authorities that challenged the eligibility of U.S. Men's National Team strikerFolarin Balogunto play againstBelgiumin aWorld Cupknockout game in Seattle on Monday night. FIFA, soccer's international governing body, said that the Royal Belgian Football Association challenge "was rendered inadmissible on the grounds that the RBFA is not a party to the proceedings and, as such, has no standing to appeal the decision" to give Balogun a one-game suspension, FIFA's media account on X said. The post, which had linked to FIFA's intranet, was quickly deleted. Balogun was due to serve that suspension on Monday night as the result of receiving a red card and ejection during last Wednesday's game against Bosnia Herzegovina. FIFA reversed the suspension after PresidentDonald TrumpaskedFIFAto reviewBalogun's automatic suspension. The Royal Belgian Football Association, in a statement earlier Monday, blastedFIFAfor refusing to"respond to the RBFA's legitimate requests" about what led to Balogun being allowed to play in the …

FIFA Reverses Folarin Balogun's Ban After Trump Intervened; The First ... Donald Trump became embroiled in the controversy surrounding Balogun's suspension. Bryan Berlin | Wikimedia Commons United States President Donald Trump has upended the 2026 World Cup after personally intervening to have a red card against USA striker Folarin Balogun overturned — the first such reversal at football's showpiece tournament in over six decades. Balogun had been expected to miss Monday's last-16 clash against Belgium after picking up a red card for an awkward challenge on Bosnia's Tarik Muharemovic, a decision USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino branded unjust. But after the US President reportedly phoned FIFA President Gianni Infantino directly to demand a review, football's governing body suspended the ban, clearing the 25-year-old to play. President Trump called the president of FIFA in the hours after the U.S. men’s soccer team played Wednesday and asked him to review the suspension of the team’s top goal scorer in the World Cup, Folarin Balogun, after he was given a red card.Read more: nyti.ms/4vSHMTS [image or embed] — The New York Times ( @nytimes.com ) July 6, 2026 at 3:41 PM The astonish…

President Trump’s FIFA call puts Balogun back on field, sparks integrity questions <p>U.S. soccer star Folarin Balogun will play in tonight’s World Cup game against Belgium after President Trump asked FIFA to review Balogun's ban, sparking controversy over political influence in sports.</p>

European MPs call for probe of FIFA boss Infantino over red card ... Save Share European lawmakers have called for a probe into FIFA boss Gianni Infantino, after the organisation’s unprecedented decision to overturn the World Cup suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun, raising questions about whether pressure from US President Donald Trump impacted the move. A group of members of the European parliament on Tuesday launched an initiative calling for an investigation into Infantino’s role in the decision, Euronews reported. A letter being shared in the European parliament urged football associations across the European Union to seek a formal FIFA review of the decision-making process and any possible political interference. Balogun, who is the US’s top goalscorer in the tournament, was shown a red card during the US victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1, which normally would force him to sit out the next game. However,FIFA lifted his suspensionfor a match against Belgium on Monday, after Trump called Infantino, who he has beenfriendly with for years. FIFA said the decision was made by its disciplinary committee. It marks the first time in modern World Cup history t…

Balogun status: Belgium reportedly given chance to appeal suspension ... United States President Donald Trump has admitted he talked with FIFA President Gianni Infantino about Folarin Balogun's suspension, leading the soccer governing body's disciplinary committee to overturn the decision on Sunday and allow Balogun to play against Belgium on Monday. The Belgium soccer federation was granted the right to appeal the controversial decision that led FIFA to lift the one-match suspension of United States striker Folarin Balogun , but it was later ruled as "inadmissible". The American player was sent off in the second half of the United States' victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina for a challenge on a defender, which the referee punished with a red card following a VAR review. However, Belgium will have the right to appeal against the controversial decision with submissions due Monday morning, and a ruling possible by game time, though FIFA would not guarantee that would be the case, according to a report from the Athletic. FIFA Appeal Committee statement After Belgium appeal, the FIFA Committee made the following statement: The FIFA Appeal Committee has rendered a request submitted by …

'Our game, not theirs': Klopp slams FIFA's Balogun decision 'Our game, not theirs': Klopp slams FIFA's Balogun decision Berlin (AFP) – Former Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp on Monday slammed FIFA's decision to overturn US striker Folarin Balogun's suspension, which reportedly took place after an intervention from US President Donald Trump. Issued on: 06/07/2026 - 11:14 2 min Reading time Jurgen Klopp slammed FIFA's decision to overturn Folarin Balogun's ban © MAURO PIMENTEL / AFP Advertising Read more Balogun was set to miss Monday's last-16 knockout clash with Belgium having picked up a red card in his previous match, but FIFA on Sunday suspended the ban for a year, making the forward eligible to play. Sources told AFP Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino, asking him to review Balogun's punishment. Former Liverpool manager Klopp, who is set to become the next Germany manager after Julian Nagelsmann's resignation on Friday, hit out at the decision. "It's a red card, even if it's a shame because Balogun can't play, but it's there in the rules," Klopp said. "This is our game, not theirs... If Trump and Infantino really worked this all out between themselves, …

What Trump said to FIFA chief about Folarin Balogun's red card - Full conversation US 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.

'I didn't think it was a foul': Trump says he asked FIFA ... - CNN Video Ad Feedback Trump: ‘I asked for a review by FIFA’ of controversial red card 2:32 • Source: CNN Trump: ‘I asked for a review by FIFA’ of controversial red card 2:32 Donald Trump Soccer People in sports See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow President Donald Trump said Monday that he personally asked FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to review the decision to give a red card and one-game ban to Team USA star striker Folarin Balogun — a remarkable intervention that sparked a torrent of controversy at the World Cup. FIFA on Sunday announced that Balogun would be eligible to play in the Round of 16 against Belgium Monday night, igniting questions around the integrity of the tournament. “All I did was ask for a review. I didn’t say, ‘You have to do this,’” Trump said from the Oval Office, adding that he “didn’t think it was a foul.” He referred to the incident as “two guys running full speed that happened to crash into each other.” “He didn’t do anything wrong,” Trump said of the US player. The comments represent the first detailed account from Trump on his conversation with Infantino, with …

'Everyone should celebrate': USA coach hails Balogun red-card reprieve; Trump thanks FIFA US 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.

World Cup integrity questioned as Trump, FIFA defend actions GENEVA — Soccer leaders questioned the World Cup’s integrity on a chaotic and unprecedented day in the event’s modern history Monday. The furor centered on a phone call that President Donald Trump made last week to FIFA head Gianni Infantino to make the case that U.S. striker Folarin Balogun should not have been suspended for Monday’s matchup with Belgium because of a red card in a game last week. FIFA lifted the suspension and cleared Balogun to play. READ:World Cup: LeBron James praises Balogun after ‘Silencer’ celebration The decision appeared to be the first time since 1962 that punishment for a World Cup offense was suspended in the tournament, increasing scrutiny on Infantino’s control of FIFA and his close association with Trump. European soccer body UEFA said FIFA “crossed a red line” and called Sunday’s decision by FIFA’s disciplinary committee “unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable.” Infantino denied having a role in the decision. Trump called it a “horrible” call and took credit for getting FIFA to review the foul, but said he did not demand an outcome. The Belgian Football Association said it…

Fact Check: Did Trump admit that he ordered FIFA to reverse Folarin ... HOME / FACT CHECK Fact Check: Did Trump admit that he ordered FIFA to reverse Folarin Balogun's one-game ban? The claim surfaced after FIFA stunned many by lifting Folarin Balogun's ban, invoking a rarely used bylaw BY SAURAV SURESH PUBLISHED 13 HOURS AGO A viral social media post suggests President Donald Trump admitted to personally ordering FIFA to reverse Folarin Balogun's ban after he was shown a controversial red card during the US' 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina (AP Photo, Getty Images) WASHINGTON, DC: Amid debate surrounding FIFA's reversal of Folarin Balogun's red card, a claim began circulating on social media that President Donald Trump personally ordered FIFA to reverse Balogun's one-game ban, with a viral post suggesting he admitted to his role in the controversial move. Let us analyze and fact-check the viral claim. Claim: Donald Trump admitted that he ordered FIFA to reverse Folarin Balogun's ban The claim has been amplified by several other accounts, also spreading on Facebook and Instagram (@BuzzCrave_/X) According to the viral claim that surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), Trump personally ord…

Trump called FIFA chief to review Balogun red card: Report US President Donald Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino and asked him to review the World Cup suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun, which was reversed by football’s governing body on Sunday, the New York Times reported.Balogun had been sent off for inadvertently treading on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic in the USA’s 2-0 victory in the last 32 on Wednesday.For all the latest headlines follow our Google News channel online or via the app.Under FIFA rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban that cannot be appealed by the player’s team, meaning Balogun was ruled out of USA’s last 16 match against Belgium to be played Monday.But Trump called Infantino on Wednesday asking him to review the decision, the New York Times reported, citing three unnamed people familiar with the decision.On Sunday, FIFA took the unusual decision to suspend the ban for one year. Trump quickly thanked the governing body in a social media post for “reversing a great

Trump Called FIFA President President Gianni Infantino — Then Balogun's ... US President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the suspension of United States forward Folarin Balogun after the striker was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina, according to multiple reports. The New York Times, citing three people familiar with the conversation, reported that Trump telephoned Infantino on Wednesday after Balogun received a red card during the match. On Sunday, FIFA announced that the United States' leading goalscorer would be eligible to play against Belgium on Monday after suspending the implementation of his one-match ban. According to the report, the decision marks the first time since 1962 that FIFA has allowed a player to appear in a match despite a suspension that would ordinarily have ruled him out. Breaking It Down What is the significance of Article 27 in FIFA's disciplinary code? How did the Royal Belgian Football Association react to FIFA's decision? What potential impact does Trump's relationship with FIFA have? Created with AI. The development comes as Infantino has cultivated close ties with Trump in recent years. Last year, FIFA pr…

Trump confirms he asked Fifa to review Balogun ban United 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.

Folarin Balogun handed HUGE fine for red card despite it being ... Share on X (Opens in new window) X Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Comment now FOLARIN Balogun has been hit with a HUGE fine by Fifa after his red card controversy. The USA striker was sent off against Bosnia in the round of 32 last week. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Folarin Balogun has been hit with a fine by Fifa Credit: Getty He is free to play against Belgium despite being sent off against Bosnia Credit: Reuters Advertisement But his red card was controversially suspended after an intervention by President Donald Trump. Balogun is free to play in the last-16 clash with Belgium on Monday night, despite the uproar. But the 25-year-old was hit with a fine of $40,000 – half of which is payable by US Soccer. The punishment will be little consolation to Belgium if they are beaten by a Balogun-led US team on Monday night. Trump confirmed he called Infantino after Team USA’s round of 32 match and asked Fifa president Gianni Infantino to review Balogun‘s foul in the 64th minute. The American striker was issued a red card for stepping awkwardly on the right ankle of Bosnia’s Tarik Muhar…

World Cup integrity is questioned as Trump, FIFA defend actions By GRAHAM DUNBAR The Associated Press GENEVA (AP) — Soccer leaders questioned the World Cup’ s integrity on a chaotic and unprecedented day in the event’s modern history Monday. The furor centered on a phone call that President Donald Trump made last week to FIFA head Gianni Infantino to make the case that U.S. striker Folarin Balogun should not have been suspended for Monday’s matchup with Belgium because of a red card in a game last week. FIFA lifted the suspension and cleared Balogun to play. The decision ultimately didn’t help the U.S. team, which was eliminated from the World Cup with a 4-1 loss to Belgium late Monday with Balogun in the lineup. The decision appeared to be the first time since 1962 that punishment for a World Cup offense was suspended in the tournament, increasing scrutiny on Infantino’s control of FIFA and his close association with Trump. European soccer body UEFA said FIFA “crossed a red line” and called Sunday’s decision by FIFA’s disciplinary committee “unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable.” Infantino denied having a role in the decision. Trump called it a “horrible” call and to…

Trump admits calling FIFA over a red card; the reversal for the US striker sparks an outcry <p> <img src="https://en.mercopress.com/data/cache/noticias/110694/100x80/tttfifa.jpg" alt="Trump acknowledged his intervention and defended it. &#147;All I did was ask that the play be reviewed, because it didn&#039;t look like a foul to me,&#148; the president said" width="100" height="80" style="float:left;margin:0 12px 6px 0;border:1px solid #333" /> US President Donald Trump admitted he had called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to ask that the red card shown to US striker Folarin Balogun be reviewed, after the body reversed the suspension that would have kept him out of the round-of-16 match against Belgium. The decision, unprecedented in more than six decades of World Cups, triggered a wave of criticism and formal protests from the Belgian federation and UEFA.</p>

Balogun was star of USMNT's feel-good World Cup. Now? The unwitting ... USMNT Latest LIVE 1m ago Folarin Balogun has scored three times at the World Cup - but was supposed to be suspended for the Belgium tiePhil Noble / Reuters The Athletic has live coverage ofUSMNT vs Belgiumin the2026 FIFA World Cup. SEATTLE — Even after the red card, after the dejection, amid the suspension, Folarin Balogun was the smiling American face of the World Cup. He was the breakout star, the shining light, the humble hero of a team that had captivated the United States. He was the striker whose name fans sang and the role model whom parents gushed about. He was the protagonist of an entirely positive tale that was altering the course of American soccer — until FIFA, U.S. Soccer and the Trump administration intervened. Advertisement On Sunday, as he rode a bus to training, Balogun became the unwitting face of the World Cup’s biggest controversy. And his team, a likable bunch that had wowed the world with dynamic football, became a polarizing one. FIFA’s unprecedented decision to essentially rescind Balogun’s suspension— followinga call from U.S. President Donald Trumpand extensive work by lawy…

FIFA lifts Folarin Balogun's World Cup suspension after Trump calls Infantino US 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.

UEFA slams FIFA's 'unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable' Balogun decision <p>European football body UEFA has lashed out at FIFA’s decision to <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/2013238/fifa-makes-unprecedented-u-turn-following-trump-intervention-to-clear-balogun-for-us-belgium-world-cup-clash">suspend</a> US striker Folarin Balogun’s <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/2012353#:~:text=But%20the%20striker%20saw%20red%20as%20VAR%20intervened">red-card ban</a> 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.</p> <p>“We express our disbelief at such an unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable decision,” UEFA said in a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" class="link--external" href="https://www.uefa.com/news-media/news/02a7-2109c8e9ef81-de5a993db109-1000--uefa-statement-on-the-balogun-case/">statement</a> 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.”</p> <p><em>Reuters</em> has …

'It absolutely stinks': Football world erupts over Trump's role in FIFA's Balogun U-turn FIFA'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.

World Cup: Trump thanks FIFA for suspending Balogun's red card ban USA star Falorin Balogun had been set to miss the Round of 16 World Cup match against Belgium, but has now been cleared to play after an unexpected move by FIFA. The Belgian FA has called the decision "astonishing."

How FIFA came to its controversial decision on Folarin Balogun Little did referee Raphael Claus know that this red card to Folarin Balogun would kick off one of the most controversial things to happen at a World Cup. Julio Cortez/AP Soccer People in sports Donald Trump UK See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow Note: This story first appeared in The Beautiful Game by CNN Sports, our daily newsletter on all things World Cup. To subscribe, click here . Congratulations, everyone. We made it 24 days without this World Cup having to do much with Donald Trump. Yet this morning, despite all the amazing goals that have been scored and all the dramatic storylines that have been told, the very integrity of the tournament is being questioned because of the apparent actions of one man and his too-close-for-comfort relationship with the FIFA president. “I didn’t think it was a foul,” Trump told reporters on Monday about an incident which has gripped the world. You can probably tell from that intro that I don’t like the fact this brilliant, whirlwind of a World Cup has been dragged down by this sort of controversy. It was all going so well. It felt as though even po…

Trump Asked FIFA to Review U.S. Player's Suspension. Now He's Eligible ... Advertisement SKIP ADVERTISEMENT President Trump called Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, in the hours after the United States men’s soccer team played Wednesday and asked him to review the suspension of the team’s top goal scorer in the World Cup, Folarin Balogun, after he was given a red card, according to four people familiar with the conversation. On Sunday, FIFA reversed the suspension, announcing that Mr. Balogun would be eligible to play Monday against Belgium. The reversal is highly unusual and is the first time since 1962 that FIFA has allowed a player to appear in a game when they would have been suspended after being sent off in the World Cup. Mr. Infantino has spent years trying to curry favor with Mr. Trump . Last year, FIFA created and gave Mr. Trump the FIFA Peace Prize amid the president’s public, but failed, campaign to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Shortly after Mr. Balogun’s red card, senior Trump administration officials, including Howard Lutnick, the commerce secretary, and Andrew Giuliani, the executive director of the White House task force on the World Cup, engaged lawyers to hel…

US's leading scorer got red card against Bosnia for stepping on a Bosnian player's ankle. All red cards have a 1-game ban for next game. Trump asked FIFA head Infantino to rescind the RC & ban. FIFA did just that. Breaking every rule & precedent re red cards & mandatory suspensions in football.

'This is our sport' Jurgen Klopp condemns Donald Trump and Gianni ... Home > Football > Football News > FIFA World Cup Published 01:47 7 Jul 2026 GMT+1 'This is our sport' Jurgen Klopp condemns Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino over Balogun red card appeal The soon-to-be Germany coach slammed the decision for FIFA to overturn the Folarin Balogun red card Jack Marsh Follow us on Google Discover Jurgen Klopp has become the latest high-profile footballing figure to ridicule the decision to overturn the Folarin Balogun red card, hurling harsh words towards Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump. Following the announcement that Folarin Balogun started for the USA in their Round of 16 game against Belgium, following his red card ban being 'suspended', President Donald Trump claimed it as a personal victory, taking full credit. The delayed suspension marked a World Cup first, as the White House invoked a team of lawyers to uncover a little-known rule that allowed FIFA to give the green light for Balogun to play. "I’m the one that got them to do it,” Trump said in a speech at the White House. Advert “I saw the play, and I’m a person who loves sports. That wasn’t a foul. That wasn’t even an inf…

Trump confirms he asked Fifa to review Balogun ban President Donald Trump confirms he asked Fifa to review United States striker Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension at the World Cup.

US Soccer Doesn’t Need a Big, Orange Thumb on the Scale As the US men’s national soccer team prepares to face off against Belgium on Monday night, the question isn’t whether their aggressive and quick play style can defeat an opponent that humiliated them 5-2 back in March—it’s what Donald Trump&#8217;s role in the decision to suspend star striker Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban means for the [&#8230;]

Thomas Tuchel jokes U.S. President Trump could lift Jarell ... - ESPN Thomas Tuchel has questioned the process which led to Folarin Balogun's suspension being lifted and jokedHarry Kanecould ask U.S. Donald Trump to help overturn Jarell Quansah's red card againstMexico. FIFA has confirmed that Balogun will be eligible to play for the USMNT againstBelgiumin their round-of-16 clash on Monday after invoking article 27 of their disciplinary code to defer his one-game ban following his dismissal againstBosnia-Herzegovina. The Royal Belgian Football Association said it was "astonished" by the decision, which rABC news reported Trump contacted FIFA boss Gianni Infantino to review Balogun's punishment. Quansah was sent off following another VAR review asEnglandheld on for a dramatic 3-2 win over Mexico at Azteca Stadium, after which Tuchel expressed his dismay at the situation. "I think first of all, to be very clear, that it was not a red card," said Tuchel of Balogun. "But VAR got involved and obviously three people from VAR and the referee checked it and were of the opinion it is a yellow card so the decision is made. "Who overturns this decision and when and on what grounds? And …

Belgian football body challenges reversal of Balogun’s World Cup suspension Trump says he asked FIFA&#039;s president to review USA player Balogun&#039;s game suspension, but did not tell him what to do.

Folarin Balogun red card overturned: Gianni Infantino-Trump links under ... Folarin Balogun will be available for the USMNT in Monday'sFIFA World CupRound of 16 clash against Belgium after his suspension was unexpectedly overturned. Balogun had originally been ruled out after receiving a red card during Wednesday's victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team. However, FIFA's disciplinary committee reportedly rescinded the suspension, clearing the striker to return for the knockout fixture. The ruling quickly triggered widespread discussion on social media, with some fans speculating that the decision may have been influenced by the close relationship and interactions between Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. A userwrote on X, "Trump had some words with Gianni Infantino." Another jokinglyposted, "In the near future, Trump will “accidentally” mention his recent conversation with Gianni Infantino." One more fanadded, "Good to see Gianni still is taking phone calls from Trump...." Later, an Associated Press report claimed that the White House had contacted Gianni Infantino regarding Folarin Balogun's red card, citing an unnamed source familiar wit…

Integrity of World Cup is questioned as Trump, Fifa defend Balogun suspension actions With 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...

US president Trump defends FIFA’s Balogun red card reversal US President Donald Trump defended FIFA&#039;s decision to overturn Folarin Balogun&#039;s red card suspension.

'Operate autonomously': FIFA denies pressure as Trump confirms Balogun intervention The clarification came after FIFA allowed Balogun to play in the United States' FIFA World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium, a decision that drew criticism and raised questions over whether Trump's intervention had influenced the outcome.

EU lawmakers call for probe of FIFA boss over Trump contact before US ... President Donald Trump holds up a red card during a meeting with FIFA president Gianni Infantino in the Oval Office of the White House, Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) BRUSSELS (AP) — Dozens of European lawmakers are gathering support to launch an investigation in the European Parliament of FIFA boss Gianni Infantino over his involvementin the decisionto permit U.S. striker Folarin Balogun to play despite an earlier red card. Balogun was showna red cardduring the U.S. victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the World Cup on July 1, which normally would make him ineligible to play in the team’s next game, but FIFA lifted his suspension for a match on Monday after U.S. President Donald Trump intervened with Infantino on behalf of the 25-year-old striker. European Parliament lawmakers Barry Andrews, Lara Wolters and Niels Fuglsang said in a joint statement that the decision by soccer’s world governing body to “change the rule on red card suspensions mid-tournament is a disgrace and a perversion of justice.” “Once again, we’ve seen Infantino and FIFA surrender to the demands of …

Trump intervenes to spare US soccer star a World Cup ban, sparking outcry <p>US president calls FIFA president and close friend Gianni Infantino to urge lifting of red card for Folarin Balogun; ban suspended for a year for first time since 1962, allowing striker to play against Belgium</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com/trump-intervenes-to-spare-us-soccer-star-a-world-cup-ban-sparking-outcry/">Trump intervenes to spare US soccer star a World Cup ban, sparking outcry</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com">The Times of Israel</a>.</p> <figure><img src="https://static-cdn.toi-media.com/www/uploads/2026/07/AP26183055701696-e1783323431660-1024x640.jpg" title="Trump intervenes to spare US soccer star a World Cup ban, sparking outcry" border="0" width="160" height="100" class="type:primaryImage"></figure>

Trump defends Balogun red card review call for World Cup - CNBC PresidentDonald Trumpon Monday defended making a phone call to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, which led to the soccer association controversially overturning a one-game World Cup suspension of U.S. Men's National Team strikerFolarin Balogun. "I asked for a review because I didn't think it was a foul," Trump said, referring to a referee issuing Balogun a red card in his team's victory last week over Bosnia and Herzegovina. "I didn't know what the hell a red card was," Trump told reporters at theWhite Housefor an Oval Office event promoting the launch ofTrump Accounts, an investment vehicle for children. The card led to Balogun being ejected from that match — and to the 25-year-old being barred from playing in the U.S.'s game on Monday night against Belgium. But FIFA on Sunday suspended the ban, allowing Balogun to play in Monday night's knockout match against Belgium in Seattle. "I didn't tell him what to do. I can't tell him what to do," Trump said of his call to Infantino. "And I don't believe he made the decision." Infantino, in a statement issued by FIFA on X, defended the decision to reverse Balogun's susp…

Trump, FIFA actions around Folarin Balogun suspension puts World Cup ... FIFA President Gianni Infantino, right, awards President Donald Trump with the FIFA Peace Prize during the draw for the 2026 World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington on Dec. 5, 2025. Chris Carlson/AP Share GENEVA — With the integrity of FIFA and the World Cup under attack from European soccer leaders, FIFA President Gianni Infantino acknowledged taking a call from President Donald Trump before U.S. forward Folarin Balogun was cleared to play against Belgium later Monday. Balogun was issued a red card in the U.S. match vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina last week, resulting in a suspension for the Belgium contest. Trump called Infantino after the game with Bosnia to plead his case to overturn the call, and FIFA lifted the suspension on Sunday. That prompted a day of off-field furor at the World Cup The Belgian soccer federation challenged FIFA’s ruling not to enforce a ban on Balogun. The European soccer body UEFA described the decision as an “incomprehensible” breach of soccer’s rule of law. Trump acknowledged calling Infantino and took credit for getting FIFA to review the red card. A chaotic and unprecedent…

Trump Confirms He Called FIFA to Overturn Red Card for US Soccer Star WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 06: U.S. President Donald Trump rings a bell to mark the first day of trading for "Trump Accounts" with invited children, NYSE President Lynn Martin, NYSE Chairman Jefferey Sprecher, Susan Dell and others in the Oval Office at the White House on July 06, 2026 in Washington, DC. The accounts are a $1,000 government seed deposit for children born between 2025 and 2028, with family and employer contributions capped at $5,000 annually and restricted to low-cost U.S. equity index funds. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images Share on Facebook Share on X Google Preferred Share to Flipboard Show additional share options Share on LinkedIn Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share on Tumblr Share on Whats App Send an Email Print the Article Post a Comment President Donald Trump on Monday expressed astonishment at the TV ratings for the 2026 FIFA World Cup , and confirmed that he personally intervened to help overturn a suspension for one of U.S. soccer’s star players, allowing him to return to the pitch for tonight’s must-win match against Belgium. The game is e…

Trump defends intervening to push FIFA to review Balogun's red card WORLD CUP Donald Trump Add Topic 'That wasn't a foul': Trump defends pushing FIFA president to review red card Joey Garrison USA TODAY Updated July 6, 2026, 3:56 p.m. ET Hear this story WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump defended his heavily scrutinized decision to ask FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the controversial red card issued to U.S. Men's National Soccer Team forward Folarin Balogun in the World Cup, calling the penalty "very unfair" and "horrible." "All I did, I asked for a review because I didn’t think it was a foul," Trump told reporters on July 6 in the Oval Office, confirming that he "spoke to Gianni" about the matter last week. "I saw the play, and I'm a person that loves sports and who was a good athlete. I understand sports 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," the president said. After the president's intervention, FIFA on July 5 reversed Balogun's red card and one-game suspension, a stunning move that cleared the way for the top United States goal scorer and striker to play in …

EU calls for 'fair play' after Trump's red card intervention rocks ... BRUSSELS — The European Commission has demanded “fair play and transparent competition” in sport after a suspension for U.S. star Folarin Balogun was overturned following a call between President Donald Trump and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. Speaking on Monday, European Commission spokesperson Eva Hrncirova declined to comment on Balogun’s case — but stressed that sporting federations must be free to make their own decisions. “We respect the autonomy of sport, and we respect the right of sports federations to decide on the criteria under which participants compete,” Hrncirova said. Advertisement She added, however, that “any such decision should, obviously, be made on the basis of objective and transparent criteria,” stressing more broadly that “the EU supports the principle of fair play and transparent competition.” Balogun received a red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina during the first knockout round, which meant he would be suspended for the last-16 game against Belgium. After Trump called Infantino on Thursday, the suspension was revoked. FIFA declined to confirm any specific discussions bu…

FIFA World Cup 2026: Belgium to appeal Folarin Balogun's suspended red ... HOME FOOTBALL WORLD-CUP Major twist in ‘all-time World Cup scandal’ after Trump-led red card call saves US star Balogun red card ban... SUSPENDED | 00:34 AFP and Fox Sports from Fox Sports July 6th, 2026 8:05 pm President Donald Trump 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. But there could still be another twist with The Athletic reporting Belgium has been granted the right to appeal the staggering call, while UEFA has accused FIFA of putting “the integrity of the game at stake”. Watch the biggest Aussie sports & the best from overseas LIVE on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1. Balogun had been set to miss Monday’s match after being shown a straight red card following a VAR review for stepping on the foot of a Bosnian defender in a last-32 clash that 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 su…

Trump confirms he called FIFA head but says he didn’t influence overturning Balogun's red card FIFA allowing the star American forward to play in Monday night’s matchup against Belgium immediately drew criticisms from outsiders who suspected Trump influenced the decision.

Trump thanks Fifa for overturning USA striker's ban Folarin Balogun is available to play for the United States in their World Cup last-16 tie against Belgium after his one-game ban is suspended by Fifa.

Trump Admits 'I Didn't Know What a Red Card Was' After Balogun Ban ... Trump Admits 'I Didn't Know What A Red Card Was' After Balogun Ban Reversal The White House, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Donald Trump has confessed he had no idea what a red card meant when he picked up the phone to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, hours before the governing body controversially wiped out Folarin Balogun's suspension . The intervention has plunged the tournament into fresh chaos, with the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) demanding answers and UEFA accusing FIFA of abandoning its own rulebook. Balogun, the USA's top scorer, had been shown a straight red for standing on the ankle of Bosnia-Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic in a 2-0 win on 1 July 2026. FIFA's decision to suspend the automatic one-match ban, clearing him to face Belgium in Monday's last-16 tie in Seattle, has triggered accusations the tournament is 'rigged' in the co-hosts' favour. Trump's Admission Over the Phone Call Speaking to reporters during an Oval Office event on Monday, Trump confirmed he had rung Infantino personally to query the officiating decision. 'I asked for a review by FIFA,' he said, insisti…

Trump weighs in on Folarin Balogun World Cup red card decision by FIFA WORLD CUP Donald Trump Add Topic Donald Trump thanks FIFA for reversing 'great injustice' on Folarin Balogun ban Joe Rivera USA TODAY July 5, 2026, 1:26 p.m. ET Hear this story The winner of the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize has weighed in on a crucial decision. United States men's national team striker Folarin Balogun will be available for the USMNT's 2026 World Cup round of 16 matchup vs. Belgium, a stunning development after he was set to serve an automatic one-game ban. President Donald Trump , the recipient of the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize, weighed in on the decision on Sunday, July 5. "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP," he posted on Truth Social. Balogun, who was assessed a controversial red card in the USMNT's Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, was set to serve an automatic one-game suspension under FIFA rules. However, the governing body suspended Through three matches in the World Cup, Balogun has netted three goals and three assists. He's also been assessed one yellow card and one red card in the tournament. The USMNT h…

FIFA 'crossed a red line' with red card U-turn at World Cup, says UEFA Football's European governing body blasts the decision to suspend a US striker's World Cup red-card ban, saying FIFA had "crossed a red line" after US President Donald Trump personally intervened in the case.

Integrity of World Cup is questioned as Trump, FIFA defend ... - Chron United States' Folarin Balogun (20) reacts to a red card during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between the United States and Bosnia in Santa Clara, Calif., near San Francisco, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Jeff Chiu/AP Photo/Jeff Chiu FILE - FIFA President Gianni Infantino, right, awards President Donald Trump with the FIFA Peace Prize during the draw for the 2026 soccer World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington, Dec. 5, 2025. Chris Carlson/AP Photo/Chris Carlson United States' Folarin Balogun (20) puts his foot down on Bosnia's Tarik Muharemovic (4) for which he received a red card during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between the United States and Bosnia in Santa Clara, Calif., near San Francisco, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Martin Meissner/AP Photo/Martin Meissner United States' Folarin Balogun (20) and United States' Christian Pulisic (10) stand by after Balogun received a red card during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between the United States and Bosnia in Santa Clara, Calif., near San Francisco, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Martin Meissner/AP Photo/Martin Meissner United States Secretary …

'Our game, not theirs': Klopp slams FIFA's Balogun ... - News24 06 Jul Former Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp on Monday slammed FIFA’s decision to overturn US striker Folarin Balogun’s suspension, which reportedly took place after an intervention from US President Donald Trump. Balogun was set to miss Monday’s last-16 knockout clash with Belgium having picked up a red card in his previous match, but FIFA on Sunday suspended the ban for a year, making the forward eligible to play. Sources told AFP that Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino, asking him to review Balogun’s punishment. Former Liverpool manager Klopp, who is set to become the next Germany manager after Julian Nagelsmann’s resignation on Friday, hit out at the decision. “It’s a red card, even if it’s a shame because Balogun can’t play, but it’s there in the rules,” Klopp said. “This is our game, not theirs... If Trump and Infantino really worked this all out between themselves, that’s crazy. It calls everything into question... “These two individuals, neither of whom has a clue about football, shouldn’t have anything to do with it,” the 59-year-old added. Balogun, 25, was shown a red card straight…

Donald Trump FIFA influence? Balogun reversal sparks World Cup controversy WORLD CUP Men's World Cup Add Topic Did Trump pressure FIFA? Balogun ban overturned before World Cup clash Tom D'Angelo Palm Beach Post Updated July 6, 2026, 1:52 p.m. ET Hear this story Former President Donald Trump called FIFA president to review a red card given to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun. Following Trump's intervention, FIFA overturned Balogun's one-game suspension for the World Cup quarterfinal. The decision drew strong criticism from UEFA and the Royal Belgium Football Association. Leave it to Donald Trump to take a feelgood, uplifting story about an underdog United States men's World Cup team the entire country and much of the world can get behind, and perpetuate America's reputation of being the big bully on the block. Or in this case, pitch. Because this is what the president of the United States does. He tries to stick his nose into everything when it comes to sports because he craves credit and attention. Buy World Cup tickets on Stubhub And now you take an organization like FIFA with a well-documented history of corruption , and its president showing no limits for his admiration toward one …

'All I did was ask for a review': FIFA reverses red card suspension on USA player <p>President Trump said he asked FIFA to review its decision to suspend U.S. player Folarin Balogun. Now Balogun can play in Monday's match against Belgium.</p>

World Cup 2026: Trump, FIFA and the Balogun controversy One 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.

Trump's call to Infantino and plot to 'free' Balogun that sparked a ... FIFA World Cup 2026 LIVE 6s ago The intervention of U.S. President Donald Trump (right) with FIFA's Gianni Infantino (left) was decisive in helping suspend USMNT striker Folarin Balogun's banHector Vivas - FIFA via Getty Images President Donald Trump has been an elusive figure throughout this World Cup. Or he was until the middle of last week, when he picked up the phone to call Gianni Infantino, the FIFA president, to ask for a review of the one-game suspension facing United States striker Folarin Balogun after his red card for fouling Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Tarik Muharemovic in the co-hosts’ 2-0 round of 32 win. Advertisement On Sunday,The Athleticexclusively revealedBalogun will now be available for the USMNT’s round of 16 tie against Belgiumon Monday (early Tuesday in the UK), after FIFA’s independent disciplinary committee decided to suspend his ban. President Trump was quick to react to the extraordinary development on Truth Social, thanking FIFA“for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!”, before it then emerged that he had discussed the Balogun matter with Infantino earlier i…

Trump Intervention Sparks World Cup Storm as FIFA Clears Balogun to ... 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 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 center 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 wi…

FIFA CAVES to Trump after phone call that has rocked the World Cup ByMIKE KEEGAN, CHIEF SPORTS REPORTERandDANIEL MATTHEWS, US SENIOR SPORTS WRITERandJAMES COHEN, SPORTS REPORTER Published:12:40 EDT, 5 July 2026|Updated:20:50 EDT, 5 July 2026 6.3k Viewcomments The World Cup descended into farce on Sunday after it emerged Donald Trump personally called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the one-match ban handed to USA striker Folarin Balogun. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the sport, the governing body confirmed that Balogun is free to face Belgium in the last 16 on Monday night, despite being red-carded in the US's win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1. White House sources have confirmed to the Daily Mail that Trump took the extraordinary step of reaching out to Infantino, ahead of FIFA’s staggering decision to suspend the ban. Moments after the announcement, PresidentTrumpthanked FIFA for 'reversing a great injustice' in a post on Truth Social. Trump, who has become close friends with Infantino since returning to theWhite House, wrote: 'Thank you to Fifa for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP.' The Presi…

Trump lobbied FIFA president to review Folarin Balogun's suspension WORLD CUP U.S. Men's National Soccer Team Add Topic Trump lobbied FIFA president to review US star's World Cup suspension Trump called Gianni Infantino to urge a review of Folarin Balogun's red card before the US player's suspension was reversed. Joey Garrison USA TODAY July 5, 2026 Updated July 6, 2026, 8:19 a.m. ET Hear this story WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump called Gianni Infantino on July 1 to urge the FIFA president to review the controversial red card issued to star U.S. Men's National Soccer Team forward Folarin Balogun, according to two sources familiar with the conversation. Balogun's red card and suspension for the next U.S. World Cup match was reversed on July 5. The clearance of Balogun, the team's top goal scorer and striker, gives the U.S. a major boost for its July 6 round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle. The red card ‒ issued to Balogun in the World Cup match against Bosnia-Herzegovina after his foot landed on an opponent's ankle ‒ drew widespread criticism as too punitive. Trump posted on Truth Social after the reversal, thanking FIFA for "doing what was right, and reversing a great …

Trump confirms call at centre of red card controversy 'with massive political consequences' President Donald Trump confirmed he asked FIFA boss Gianni Infantino to review the "horrible" decision to hand a red card to star US striker Folarin Balogun but said he did not request it be overturned. Belgium, who the US will be playing in the quarterfinal, have called the decision 'incomprehensible' and a 'a blatant violation of the most basic rules of football and sport'. FRANCE 24's Selina Sykes tells us more and whether this could change Belgium's chance of winning.

FIFA Gives Trump Exactly What He Wants <p>Reversing a red card against U.S. soccer star Folarin Balogun isn’t FIFA’s only unusual concession to Trump. </p> <p>The post <a href="https://theintercept.com/2026/07/06/trump-fifa-world-cup-red-card-infantino/">FIFA Gives Trump Exactly What He Wants</a> appeared first on <a href="https://theintercept.com">The Intercept</a>.</p>

Donald Trump thanks Fifa for 'reversing a great injustice' as USA star ... Share on X (Opens in new window) X Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook PRESIDENT Donald Trump has publicly thanked Fifa for “reversing a great injustice” after Folarin Balogun’s red card ban was overturned. The soccer governing body reversed USMNT forward Balogun’s one-game ban with a sensational announcement on Sunday. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! Donald Trump has publicly thanked Fifa for “reversing a great injustice” after Folarin Balogun’s red card ban was suspended Credit: Splash Balogun was sent off for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic earlier this week Credit: AP Advertisement Balogun was handed the ban after being sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this week. The 25-year-old had caught the leg of defender Tarik Muharemovic with his studs in the 64th minute. He subsequently received a red card following a VAR check. Balogun was handed a one-game ban for the dismissal as per Fifa rules. READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP JUST THE TICKET World Cup clash breaking records for most expensive ticket EVER at stadium FIFA U-TURN Folarin Balogun’s red card SUSPENDED with USA s…

Trump intervention forces stunning FIFA U-turn as Balogun escapes World Cup ban FIFA'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.

'This is our sport, not theirs': Klopp attacks Fifa chief over Balogun ... Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has led a chorus of condemnations against Fifa President Gianni Infantino, after US striker Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension was controversially delayed following intervention from Donald Trump. Trump confirmed on Monday that he had called Infantino directly to ask him to “review” a red card handed to US star player Balogun, during a match against Bosnia last week. On Sunday, Fifa stunned the sports world by reversing that red card and giving Balogun a one-year probationary period instead, using its rarely invoked Article 27 from the Fifa disciplinary code. Balogun played against Belgium on Monday, but proved ineffective in a comfortable 4-1 win for the Belgians. Following the development, the former Liverpool manager launched a rare public criticism of Infantino over the debacle. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters “This is our sport, not theirs,” Klopp said. “If Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino really sorted this out between themselves, it …

US team’s Folarin Balogun free to play after Trump lobbies FIFA to remove ban PRESS REVIEW – Monday, 6 July 2026: First, the French papers ready themselves for an upcoming verdict in far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pen's embezzlement case. Next, the New York Times features a long read on the battle for the internet’s soul. Also, Folarin Balogun will play in Team USA’s next game after US President Donald Trump lobbied FIFA to remove the match suspension he received after being shown a red card in the previous game. Finally, the Belgians have become shrimp shelling world champions.

World Cup: What to know about FIFA's decision to lift Balogun's ... Folarin Balogun 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. U.S. President Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino after the game asking FIFA review the red card, and then 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. (Produced by Luke Garratt) United States’ Folarin Balogun (20) reacts after scoring his team’s first goal during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between the United States and Bosnia in Santa Clara, Calif., near San Francisco, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) President Donald Trump holds the FIFA World Cup Winners Trophy as FIFA President Gianni Infantino looks on during an announcement in the Oval Office of the White House, Aug. 22, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) United States’ Folarin Balogun (20) puts his foot down on Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic (4) for which he received a red c…

Trump Confirms FIFA Phone Call Over USMNT Red Card; UEFA ... - Deadline Folarin Balogun Jamie Squire/Getty Images UPDATED: 8:01 AM : President Donald Trump confirmed Monday morning that he called FIFA boss Gianni Infantino to request a review into USMNT star Folarin Balogun’s one-match suspension after his red card at the World Cup . Trump says soccer’s governing body “made the right decision” to suspend the ban, adding it would have left a “big stain” on the tournament had it stood. Related Stories Sports World Cup 2026: How To Watch On TV & Streaming, Full Round Of 16 Schedule, Results Ratings World Cup Ratings Were Supposed To Be Big, But THIS Big?! Fox & Telemundo Execs On The Secrets To The Surge Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump admitting calling FIFA because “didn’t think it was a foul — and, you know, I’m good at this stuff.” The U.S. president had taken to social media Sunday to praise FIFA’s U-turn. Trump is a close friend of FIFA’s Infantino, who awarded the POTUS with the organization’s first Peace Prize. Watch on Deadline PREVIOUSLY, 3:15 AM : European soccer body UEFA is the latest to weigh in on FIFA’s controversial decision to overturn U.S. soccer star F…

FIFA lifts US star striker Balogun's red card suspension at World Cup after Trump calls Infantino SEATTLE (AP) -- U.S. President Donald Trump intervened on behalf of American star forward Folarin Balogun, whose red-card suspension was lifted in a d

🚨 BREAKING: The European Commission has demanded “fair play and transparent competition” in sport after a suspension for U.S. star Folarin Balogun was overturned following a call between Donald Trump and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. Full story: www.politico.eu/article/eu-f...

Donald Trump thanks FIFA as 'great USA injustice reversed' at World Cup Donald Trumphas expressed his gratitude to FIFAafter theysuspended Folarin Balogun's one-match banat the2026 World Cup- a decision that will allow the striker to feature for the USA in their round of 16 showdown with Belgium.Balogun received a red cardduring his country's 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Thursday, after dragging his studs down Tarik Muharemovic's calf, before connecting with his ankle. Despite the dismissal ordinarily carrying a mandatory one-match ban,FIFAtook the unusual step of suspending the punishment for a year. A statement from the world governing body 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. We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read ourPrivacy Policy "If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall…

Trump intervention sparks World Cup storm as FIFA clears Balogun to ... PTI FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's automatic World Cup ban after U.S. President Donald Trump (file photo) urged a review, clearing the striker to face Belgium in a decision that sparked controversy over political influence and FIFA's disciplinary process. 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 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. Also read: FIFA World Cup 2026: Donald Trump to attend final, present World Cup trophy Within minutes, the decision had ignited one of the tournament's biggest media storms, dominating sports bulletins and talk shows as pundits, c…

FIFA lifts US star striker Balogun's red card suspension at World Cup ... Folarin Balogun 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. U.S. President Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino after the game asking FIFA review the red card, and then 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. (Produced by Luke Garratt) FIFA President Gianni Infantino, right, awards President Donald Trump with the FIFA Peace Prize during the draw for the 2026 soccer World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington, Dec. 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson, File) United States’ Folarin Balogun (20) walks off the field after receiving a red card during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between the United States and Bosnia in Santa Clara, Calif., near San Francisco, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu) Referee Raphael Claus of Brazil shows a red card to United States’ Folarin Balogun, right, during the World Cup round of…

World Cup integrity questioned as Trump, FIFA defend actions with ... Now 83° Tue 94° Wed 95° byGRAHAM DUNBAR, AP Sports Writer GENEVA (AP) —With the integrity of FIFA and the World Cup under attack from European soccer leaders, FIFA President Gianni Infantino acknowledged taking a call from President Donald Trump before U.S. forward Folarin Balogun was cleared to play against Belgium later Monday. Balogun was issued a red card in the U.S. match vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina last week, resulting in a suspension for the Belgium contest. Trump called Infantino after the game with Bosnia to plead his case to overturn the call, and FIFA lifted the suspension on Sunday. That prompted a day of off-field furor at the World Cup. The Belgian soccer federation challenged FIFA's ruling not to enforce a ban on Balogun. The European soccer body UEFA described the decision as an "incomprehensible" breach of soccer's rule of law. Trump acknowledged calling Infantino and took credit for getting FIFA to review the red card. A chaotic and unprecedented day in modern World Cup history then saw a FIFA appeals judge dismiss Belgium's legal challenge, fewer than eight hours before kickoff in Seattl…

USA fans, Mamdani, experts react to FIFA-Trump-Balogun red card controversy USA supporters divided on Trump&#039;s intervention and FIFA&#039;s decision to suspend striker&#039;s ban in Belgium World Cup match.

FIFA stunned the soccer world by allowing the USA’s Folarin Balogun … Folarin Balogun of the United States during the FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Australia on June 19. Al Sermeno/ISI Photos/Getty Images Soccer People in sports Donald Trump See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow President Donald Trump’s role in FIFA’s stunning decision to allow striker Folarin Balogun to be eligible to play against Belgium on Monday in Seattle is under the microscope. A source familiar with the matter told CNN on Sunday that Trump spoke with FIFA President Gianni Infantino this week after Balogun’s red card and asked the FIFA leader to review the call. On Sunday afternoon, soccer’s governing body announced it was using an obscure rule to suspend Balogun’s automatic one-match ban for one year, allowing the striker to play against Belgium in the Round of 16. The news that the 25-year-old forward would no longer serve an automatic one-match suspension following a straight red card during the US’ 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina came as a shock. For days, the US and its fans had operated under the assumption that there was no mechanism for the stri…

Did Donald Trump get USA striker Folarin Balogun's red card ban ... A composite image of Folarin Balogun celebrating for USMNT and a photo of Gianni Infantino with Donald Trump holding up a red card USMNT forward Folarin Balogun's red card has been overturned, meaning he is currently clear to play Belgium in theirFIFA World Cupround of 16 clash on Monday (6 July). And it appearsUS president Donald Trumphas been at the centre of getting this decision reversed. The 25-year-old forward scored and was then sent off in USMNT's 2-0 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina in their round of 32 clash. It was Balogun's third goal of the tournament but he then saw quite a harsh red card given against him. A red card leads to a one-game ban at the FIFA World Cup and can even be extended depending on the severity of the punishable act. Red cards can even be overturned on review, meaning the player affected faces no further punishment such as missing games, if it was deemed the referee incorrectly issued a red card during the match. However FIFA made an unprecedented move of suspending Balogun's red card for a year with seemingly no clear explanation as to why, meaning he can be selected for USMNT'…

When MAGA trumped FIFA — Football caves to Trump tantrum, revokes US striker Balogun's suspension Donald 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.

Trump spoke with FIFA before U.S. star Balogun was cleared to play in World Cup showdown - The Washington Post This is horrible! If Balogun drew the ‘Red ‘ card he should be out! It seems being Black is okay if you can be used by the U.S. to gain prestige. Shame on FIFA for breaking the rules! 😡

'Made right decision': Trump confirms he asked FIFA to review Balogun decision US 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.