FIFA has reversed a one-match suspension for U.S. Men's National Team striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play against Belgium in the Round of 16. The decision followed a phone call from President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday, as reported by The New York Times. Trump subsequently posted on Truth Social, thanking FIFA for "reversing a great injustice."
The intervention has sent shockwaves through the sport, with the Belgian FA expressing astonishment and considering legal action. The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) stated that FIFA's decision contradicts the competition regulations, which mandate an automatic one-game suspension for red cards. Article 10.5 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Competition Regulations and Circular No. 16 explicitly outline this automatic suspension. The RBFA is investigating all options to "protect the fundamental principles of fair play."
FIFA's disciplinary committee utilized a rarely invoked provision, Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which allows for the suspension of disciplinary measures for a probationary period. This same regulation was previously applied to Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Balogun himself had previously stated that a yellow card would have been a fairer punishment for the unintentional tackle that led to his red card during the U.S.'s win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1. The USMNT acknowledged FIFA's decision, stating, "We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow."
Speculation about Trump's involvement began before the New York Times report, fueled by social media posts from Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy. The U.S. team reportedly learned of the decision through social media before official confirmation. The eligibility of Balogun is seen as a significant boost for the U.S. ahead of their match against Belgium.