“reversing a great injustice”
President Donald Trump praised FIFA on Truth Social after the organization suspended a one-match ban for United States striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in the World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium. Balogun had received a straight red card in the previous game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which normally triggers an automatic suspension. FIFA cited its disciplinary code to delay the punishment for a year, pending similar infractions. The Belgian Football Association expressed shock and is exploring legal options, arguing the decision contradicts World Cup regulations. Trump’s comment came amid reported lobbying from U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had called for the red card to be reviewed.
- aol.co.uk ↗︎05 JUL 2026
- themag.co.uk ↗︎05 JUL 2026