Trump ally Howard Lutnick has mocked the controversy surrounding FIFA's decision to overturn a red card suspension for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun. Lutnick, who serves as Trump's secretary of commerce, shared an AI-generated image on social media depicting a "Trump Card" after news broke of his involvement in behind-the-scenes talks with FIFA.
FIFA announced 24 hours before the USA's last-16 World Cup match against Belgium that Balogun's red card had been rescinded, a move unprecedented in the tournament since 1962. The decision has drawn significant criticism from fans and the Belgian Football Association, who expressed astonishment and concern over fair play principles.
Lutnick was recently seen alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino at a World Cup match where Balogun received a second-half red card, though the suspension was later annulled. Reports indicate Lutnick has developed close ties with FIFA executives, attending dinners and hosting Infantino at his Commerce Department office.
Former President Donald Trump also commented on the decision, thanking FIFA on Truth Social for "doing what was right" and reversing "a great injustice." Trump has reportedly maintained a friendship with Infantino since returning to office in 2024. Further reports suggest that Trump, Lutnick, and White House task force head Andrew Giuliani assembled a legal team to challenge the initial dismissal.
Belgium's head coach, Rudi Garcia, voiced his frustration, stating, "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." The Belgian FA indicated they would investigate all options to protect the integrity of the game, and some reports suggest they are considering legal action, potentially referring the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
FIFA stated that the match suspension was suspended for a probationary period of one year, in accordance with Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. If Balogun commits a similar infringement during this period, the suspension will be enforced along with any additional sanctions.