“All I did was ask for a review. I didn’t say, ‘You have to do this,’”
President Donald Trump confirmed Monday that he personally asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the red card given to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun during a World Cup match, a penalty that was later overturned, allowing Balogun to play against Belgium. Trump stated he only requested a review and did not direct any action, calling the foul incorrect. The controversy began when Balogun was ejected after a collision in a game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, raising questions about tournament fairness. White House task force head Andrew Giuliani and other officials also pressed FIFA, according to a source. Infantino acknowledged the call but said an independent disciplinary committee made the final decision. Belgium appealed the reversal, but FIFA rejected it.
- keyt.com ↗︎06 JUL 2026