UEFA has strongly criticized FIFA's decision not to uphold Folarin Balogun's immediate suspension at the World Cup, labeling the move "unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable."
The controversy centers on the disciplinary process following incidents in World Cup matches. England coach Thomas Tuchel expressed confusion over the disciplinary procedures, particularly after a video assistant referee (VAR) review led to the sending off of Folarin Balogun and Jarell Quansah. Tuchel questioned the logic and consistency of overturning decisions, stating, "Where does this start and where does this end now?"
Tuchel clarified his stance on the Balogun incident, asserting it was not a red card offense. However, he acknowledged that VAR intervention and the referee's review led to the decision being made. "Who overturns this decision and when and on what grounds? And how far does this go now? It's just strange for me. We just want to have consistency in the decisions," he said.
Questions were raised about whether yellow cards could also be debated and potentially overturned, citing an example involving Declan Rice and another for Michael Olise of France. Tuchel indicated uncertainty about the rules, stating, "I don't know the rules. I am the wrong person to ask. I will wait and see what's coming."
The Belgian FA also expressed astonishment that Balogun would not face an immediate ban for a last-16 tie. Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia questioned the timing and integrity of the decision, comparing it to an April Fool's joke and stating, "We are not defending the national team or the federation, we're defending football."
The Athletic reported that Belgium has been granted the right to appeal, an unprecedented step allowing a future opponent to be involved in a disciplinary case. The Belgian FA has a deadline to make its case, with a decision pending before the match begins. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has established an ad hoc division to handle swift appeals at the tournament.