FIFA suspended two members of the United States Soccer Federation, including team manager Sam Zapatka and Vice President of Security Frank Pannell, from the team's World Cup match against Belgium. The suspensions were reportedly due to alleged violations of FIFA match protocols and potential unauthorized entry into restricted areas during a previous game against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The U.S. ultimately lost the match to Belgium 4-1, ending its World Cup run. FIFA has not provided an official reason for the suspensions, and U.S. Soccer did not offer an explanation, though the federation stated the staff suspensions were unrelated to a separate, resolved issue concerning star striker Folarin Balogun's red-card suspension. Belgium had appealed FIFA's decision to overturn Balogun's ban, but FIFA's ruling stood, allowing the player to participate.
Earlier in the tournament, Balogun received a red card during the U.S. match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. President Donald Trump reportedly called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the red card incident, stating he believed it was not a foul. With their victory over the U.S., Belgium advanced to the quarterfinals to face Spain.