On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he had contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the controversial red card issued to Folarin Balogun, a striker for the U.S. men’s national team, during their match against Bosnia-Herzegovina in the World Cup Round of 32. Trump labeled the decision to issue the red card as “horrible.”
Balogun, who has scored three goals in the tournament, received the red card after stepping on the right ankle of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s Tarik Muharemovic during the game, resulting in an automatic one-game suspension.
However, FIFA suspended the red card on Sunday, allowing Balogun to play against Belgium
in the Round of 16 match on Monday while deferring his ban.
FIFA reaffirmed this decision on Monday, stating that a request made by the Belgium football federation (RBFA) for clarification about Balogun’s suspended red card was “inadmissible,” as the RBFA was not involved in the proceedings and lacked standing to appeal.
In a second statement, FIFA clarified, “There are no provisions in the FIFA Disciplinary Code or the Regulations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 that prohibit the FIFA Disciplinary Committee from exercising its discretion as outlined in Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.”
Balogun scored the U.S.’s opening goal during their 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina, but was dismissed in the 64th minute after a VAR review determined his challenge on Muharemovic warranted a red card.
At a White House media briefing, Trump stated, “I simply requested a review. I didn’t demand a specific outcome.” He praised Infantino, remarking on his strong leadership and expressing the need for the best players to be on the field.
In response, Infantino confirmed that he had spoken with President Trump but emphasized that FIFA’s judicial bodies operate independently and he had no sway over the decision regarding Balogun.
Infantino stated: “FIFA’s judicial bodies operate autonomously, making decisions based on applicable regulations and specific facts. Their independence is crucial to maintaining the credibility and integrity of football.” He continued, “Yes, I often discuss various topics with the President of the United States and other leaders. During our conversation, I noted that there was a legal process involving FIFA’s judicial bodies and that the decision would follow accordingly.” Infantino acknowledged he sometimes agrees or disagrees with the decisions made by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, but he respects their autonomy and the rule of law.
Trump admitted he was initially unaware of the implications of a red card and felt compelled to act once he learned it might prevent Balogun from playing against Belgium. “That’s very unfair,” he remarked. “How can you penalize a player for a game that hasn’t been played?” He criticized the red card as a misjudgment, suggesting the replay exaggerated the incident. “I didn’t see it as a foul; it looked like two athletes colliding,” he said, expressing disbelief over the referee’s decision.
A FIFA statement praised referee Raphael Claus as a leading professional official, affirming his commitment to high standards. Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s Chief Refereeing Officer, also backed Claus, asserting his experience and reliability.
An official from the U.S. government revealed that Trump wanted clarification on the reason behind Balogun’s suspension. It was explained to Trump that the appeals process is managed by an independent committee.
Despite political interference statutes, FIFA has yet to comment on the rationale behind suspending Balogun’s ban. Belgium made an appeal against the decision, while UEFA argued it “crossed a line.”
CONMEBOL’s referee committee voiced its support for Claus, noting his professionalism and skill. The U.S. team is aiming to reach its first World Cup quarterfinal since 2002 with a victory over Belgium.
Previously, the Americans faced elimination in the Round of 16 against Ghana in 2010, Belgium in 2014, and the Netherlands in 2022, while missing the 2018 tournament and failing to advance from the group stage in 2006.
U.S. Soccer expressed acceptance of the Disciplinary Committee’s decision and welcomed Balogun’s eligibility for the upcoming game. “Our focus is entirely on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we appreciate the unwavering support of our fans,” the statement read.
FIFA announced that, under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, Balogun’s automatic match suspension is deferred for a probationary year.
Information from The Associated Press was utilized in this report.