The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has expressed astonishment and fury over FIFA's decision to lift the one-game suspension for U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) striker Folarin Balogun. The governing body confirmed on Sunday that Balogun, who was sent off in a previous match, will now be eligible to play in Monday's World Cup last-16 game against Belgium in Seattle.
FIFA's decision, based on Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, allows for the suspension of a previously imposed sanction for a probationary period of one year. If Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature during this period, the original suspension will be enforced. FIFA stated that if such an event occurs, the sanction will be applied without prejudice to any additional sanction for the new infringement.
The USMNT accepted the decision, with a spokesperson stating, "We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow. Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans."
However, the Belgian FA sharply disagreed with FIFA's interpretation, citing Article 66.4 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which states that a red card automatically results in a suspension for the team's next match. They also referenced Article 10.5 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Competition Regulations and FIFA World Cup 2026 Circular No. 16, both of which reinforce the automatic nature of such suspensions. The RBFA indicated it is "investigating all potential options" to safeguard fair play, and is reportedly considering legal action, including a referral to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Belgian coach Rudi Garcia expressed his disbelief at the timing and nature of the decision. "I didn’t know that at the World Cup the 5th July is now April 1st and is now April Fool’s Day… We are defending football – its ethics and history. It’s the first time in WC history that such a decision has been taken," Garcia stated during a press conference.
Balogun was shown a red card during the USMNT's victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina for a tackle on defender Tarik Muharemovic. While Balogun maintained the tackle was unintentional and believed a yellow card would have been more appropriate, the initial decision to send him off sparked considerable debate. US President Donald Trump praised FIFA's decision on social media, calling it "what was right and reversing a great injustice."
The USMNT squad reportedly learned of the confirmation of Balogun's eligibility through social media on Sunday morning, with player Chris Richards noting the initial uncertainty. Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois acknowledged the surprise, stating, "Of course it was the day prior to the game so that was a bit of a surprise – had it been done earlier, we’d have been able to be more mentally prepared perhaps… they have 11 players too, it's not only Balogun."
