FIFA lifts US star striker’s red-card ban after Trump reportedly intervenes
WORLD, July 06 (YPA) –The United States’ World Cup campaign reportedly took an extraordinary turn on Sunday after FIFA made a controversial decision to suspend the automatic enforcement of Folarin Balogun’s red-card ban, allowing the striker to be available for the last-16 match against Belgium.
The decision, according to reports, came after US President Donald Trump allegedly urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case.
Balogun had been sent off in the round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee is said to have relied on Article 27 of its regulations, which allows for the suspension of a sanction under probationary conditions for up to one year, a move that reportedly opened the door for the player’s participation in the knockout stages.
A similar case has been referenced involving Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo during 2026 World Cup qualifying against the Republic of Ireland.
Ronaldo, 41, was sent off in the 59th minute for an elbow challenge, marking the first red card of his international career. He initially received a three-match suspension, with two matches reportedly suspended for one year, allowing him to serve a one-match ban against Armenia. FIFA reportedly cited his “exemplary disciplinary record” in the decision.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the ruling has sparked widespread debate, with reports suggesting contact between US officials and FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the case.
Some reports have also claimed that US President Donald Trump called Infantino to request a review of Balogun’s suspension. Trump later posted on social media: “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!”
Background to the decision
Balogun was sent off following a strong challenge in the United States’ 2–0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. He has been one of the standout performers for the US team, scoring three goals in three matches and finishing as their top scorer in the group stage.
Belgium astonished by decision
The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) said it was “astonished” by FIFA’s decision to declare Balogun eligible to play in the match, pointing to the rule book while it investigated all potential options.
“FIFA bases its decision on Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This provision states that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee may decide to suspend the enforcement of a previously imposed disciplinary sanction,” the RBFA said.
The United States are scheduled to face Belgium at Lumen Field on Tuesday.
@E.Y.M