The World Cup faced unusual controversy when U.S. President Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review a one-game ban issued to American striker Folarin Balogun. The ban, a result of a red card received during a match against Bosnia on July 1, was suspended following Trump's intervention, making Balogun available for the game against Belgium.
FIFA confirmed the suspension, a move that garnered praise from Trump and many U.S. supporters but also significant backlash from other international soccer fans. The Belgian FA lodged an appeal against FIFA's decision, which was subsequently rejected. Amid the ensuing debate, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani offered a commentary on the situation by referencing a well-known clip of soccer manager Jose Mourinho stating, "I prefer not to speak. If I speak, I am in big trouble." Mamdani's social media post, which included the Mourinho clip, quickly gained traction, amassing millions of views online.
Trump publicly acknowledged his call to Infantino, stating he had asked for a review because he believed the foul was not warranted and that Balogun, a vital player for the U.S. team, had done nothing wrong. "That wasn't a foul. That wasn't even an infraction. That was two guys running full speed who happened to crash into each other," Trump told reporters. He also questioned the referee's past decisions.
Infantino released a statement confirming regular discussions with heads of state, including Trump, on various matters. He emphasized that while he received the call, the decision-making process involved FIFA's independent judicial bodies, a system he stated he would always uphold.
Despite the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision, the Belgian FA's appeal was declared inadmissible. The Belgian FA expressed dissatisfaction, noting they had not received the grounds for the decision or requested documentation, which they claimed was a breach of FIFA regulations. They indicated that they reserved the right to take further action, including potentially referring the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino stated he was not directly involved in the process to challenge Balogun's suspension, crediting the Federation for their efforts. He noted that the ability to reverse unfair decisions could be seen as positive for the sport.
Balogun, 25, is a key player for the U.S. World Cup campaign, having scored three goals. Reports indicated that the U.S. squad was informed of the decision to suspend Balogun's ban later, with some players discovering the news through social media.