FIFA President Gianni Infantino's Fourth of July video message, intended to celebrate the United States' 250th anniversary, was met with strong criticism from American soccer fans. The backlash centered on the recent red card issued to U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) striker Folarin Balogun, which sidelines him for an upcoming Round of 16 match.

Infantino sent a pre-recorded video to Fox Sports on Saturday, featuring the World Cup trophy on the network's Philadelphia set. However, the celebratory message quickly turned into a forum for fans to voice their discontent over officiating in the current tournament.

On social media, users urged FIFA officials to intervene and overturn Balogun's suspension. One commenter suggested that to genuinely celebrate the U.S. anniversary, Infantino should lift the "travesty of a red card." Another user simply posted, "Rescind the red card."

Balogun received a straight red card during the USMNT's 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. He had scored the opening goal in the first half. After halftime, he was sent off for a challenge on an opposing defender. Replays indicated that Balogun scraped his cleats down the back of the Bosnian player's leg, leading to the disciplinary action after a VAR review by referee Raphael Claus.

In his video address, Infantino acknowledged the significance of the Fourth of July and the 250th anniversary of the United States. "This is a huge day for Fox. This is a huge day for the USA. This is a day where we celebrate 250 years of the USA," Infantino stated. He also mentioned the ongoing FIFA World Cup, noting the "incredible matches, incredible goals" and the emotion associated with them.

Infantino concluded his remarks by referencing Philadelphia as the birthplace of the nation's independence and expressed his regret at not being able to be present. "I would love to be there with you today but unfortunately I can't be with you," he said.

The USMNT will proceed to the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup without their primary attacking option due to Balogun's suspension.