FIFA Lifts Balogun Suspension After Presidential Intervention, Belgium Expresses Astonishment
FIFA has lifted the red card suspension of U.S. star striker Folarin Balogun for a World Cup match against Belgium, following an intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump who called FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Balogun received the red card in…
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, July 6, 2026 —
FIFA has overturned the one-game suspension of U.S. star striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to participate in an upcoming World Cup match against Belgium. The decision follows an intervention from U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino regarding the player’s red card suspension.
Balogun was originally handed the red card during a previous match, which automatically disqualified him from playing in the subsequent game against Belgium. The intervention by President Trump has led to the lifting of this ban.
The resolution has drawn a mixed reaction. President Trump has publicly praised the decision. However, the Belgian team and its coach have expressed astonishment and criticism regarding FIFA’s ruling. The specifics of the communication between President Trump and Gianni Infantino, and the exact grounds for FIFA’s reversal of the suspension, have not been fully detailed.
The implications of Balogun’s participation on the match outcome remain to be seen. The Belgian team’s reaction suggests potential controversy surrounding the intervention and the final decision.
Story summarized from the original created by Rubén Rosario on wsvn.com, see more information here.
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