FIFA lifts Balogun's red‑card ban ahead of U.S. round‑of‑16 match with Belgium
FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's one‑game ban for a one‑year probationary period, allowing him to play against Belgium. Donald Trump thanked FIFA after personally urging President Gianni Infantino. The Belgian FA expressed outrage and is preparing to appeal, while Belgium has been granted the right to do so. UEFA criticized the decision, and Belgium said it would take the matter to a FIFA Tribunal
FIFA suspended the one‑game red‑card ban imposed on forward Folarin Balogun, permitting him to be available for the United States' round‑of‑16 match against Belgium. The suspension will remain in effect for a probationary period of one year.
Donald Trump thanked FIFA for reversing the ban after personally urging FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The Belgian Football Association said it was outraged and is preparing to appeal the decision, and Belgium was granted the right to appeal.
UEFA described the decision as incomprehensible and unjustifiable, saying FIFA crossed a red line, according to NBC Chicago.
Balogun had received a straight red card in the United States' last‑32 match against Bosnia‑Herzegovina for stepping on defender Tarik Muharemovic's foot, and the United States won that match 2‑0, Al Arabiya reported.
Belgium said it would file a complaint with a FIFA Tribunal and the Court of Arbitration for Sport if Balogun plays, Bluesky reported.
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