FIFA Lifts Suspension on U.S. Player Folarin Balogun Ahead of World Cup Match

SEATTLE (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump intervened to lift the suspension of American forward Folarin Balogun, allowing him to participate in the upcoming World Cup match against Belgium on Monday. Balogun received a red card for a foul during a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which typically results in a one-game suspension. FIFA announced on Sunday that the suspension had been lifted, prompting mixed reactions from Trump and the Belgian team. Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the decision. In a statement, Trump expressed gratitude to FIFA for reversing what he termed a "great injustice." The Royal Belgian Football Association expressed astonishment at FIFA's decision, with coach Rudi Garcia criticizing the integrity of the ruling. The Belgian federation is exploring potential options to address the situation. Balogun's red card had been a significant point of contention in the tournament. U.S. player Christian Pulisic commented on the decision, stating that the foul did not appear to have intent. FIFA's announcement included a probationary period for Balogun, during which any further infractions could lead to the suspension being enforced. Balogun, who plays for Monaco and has scored three goals in the tournament, previously represented England at the under-21 level before switching his national team affiliation. The U.S. team aims to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. Balogun's availability was communicated to the U.S. Soccer Federation shortly before their training session on Sunday.