The Belgian soccer federation is formally challenging FIFA's decision to allow U.S. forward Folarin Balogun to play in the World Cup despite a recent red card. The federation stated it has not received an explanation from FIFA and is questioning the player's eligibility for the match between Belgium and the United States, which is crucial for a spot in the quarterfinals.
The Belgian federation (RBFA) learned of the decision through media reports and subsequently sent a letter to FIFA requesting a copy of the ruling and details of the process. According to the RBFA, FIFA responded by stating that the federation's inquiry constituted an appeal, appointed a judge, and gave the RBFA only a few hours to submit a full appeal, all without providing any explanatory information.
The RBFA insists that FIFA's regulations require the reasoned decision to be communicated to the appellant first. The federation contends that while it sought legitimate explanations, FIFA created an appeal process that would likely be declared inadmissible, while simultaneously refusing to address the RBFA's requests.
Balogun, who has scored three goals in the tournament, received a red card for stepping on an opponent's ankle during a match on Wednesday, which typically results in an automatic one-game suspension. FIFA announced Sunday that this suspension had been lifted for the current round of 16 match. This extraordinary move marks the first time since 1962 that a red card issued during a World Cup has not led to a suspension.
The Belgian federation expressed deep concern over the events and pledged to continue its efforts to defend the fundamental principles of ethics, fair competition, and the overall interests of football.