New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a self-proclaimed soccer enthusiast, refused to address questions regarding former President Donald Trump's reported intervention to reverse a red card shown to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun during a World Cup match.
Mamdani characterized the red card itself as "cruel" but steered clear of discussing Trump's alleged appeal to FIFA president Gianni Infantino to overturn the decision. "I make my own decisions," Mamdani stated when asked if he was "scared" to comment on the matter. He added, "I think more of us are now thinking about the game itself, the team, the incredible run, and the hopes for the future."
Balogun had been set to miss a critical match against Belgium due to the red card, which was issued following a penalty during the U.S. team's game against Bosnia-Herzegovina. FIFA formally reversed the ban on Sunday. The player's presence in the subsequent match, however, did not prevent the U.S. team from losing 4-1 to Belgium, ending their World Cup aspirations in the Round of 16.
When discussing the red card's initial issuance, Mamdani expressed his view that it "should have never been given" and called it a "very difficult night." He also shared a social media clip of soccer manager José Mourinho stating, "I prefer not to speak. If I speak, big trouble."