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Donald Trump Confirms He Asked FIFA to Review Folarin Balogun's Red Card
The U.S. president acknowledged that he contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino following Balogun's dismissal but insisted he did not attempt to influence the governing body's final decision.
Trump acknowledges speaking with Infantino
U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly confirmed that he asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the red card shown to Folarin Balogun during the United States' Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he believed the challenge did not warrant a dismissal but stressed that he only requested a review of the incident and did not attempt to pressure FIFA into overturning the suspension.
According to Trump, the final decision rested entirely with FIFA's disciplinary bodies.
Balogun was cleared to play
Balogun was sent off during the United States' victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, a decision that initially carried an automatic one-match suspension.
However, FIFA later lifted the suspension before the Americans faced Belgium, making the striker available for the knockout-stage clash.
So far, FIFA has not publicly explained the disciplinary or legal basis for overturning the suspension, despite earlier indications that this type of sanction could not be appealed under the competition's regulations.
The decision sparked debate
Trump's comments came after reports that contacts had taken place between U.S. officials and FIFA following Balogun's dismissal.
The decision also generated reactions across the football community. Members of the Belgium camp publicly questioned the process that led to the suspension being lifted, while former FIFA president Sepp Blatter criticized the development on social media, arguing that disciplinary decisions should be based on the rules and independent review rather than political involvement.
FIFA has not issued any additional public statement regarding the process that restored Balogun's eligibility.
A major boost for the United States
From a sporting perspective, Balogun's availability is a significant boost for Mauricio Pochettino's squad.
The 25-year-old has been one of the United States' standout performers during the tournament and is among the team's leading scorers after opening the scoring against Bosnia and Herzegovina before his dismissal.
With Balogun eligible once again, the United States enters the next stage of the World Cup with one of its most important attacking players available, while discussion surrounding FIFA's disciplinary decision continues.
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