President Donald Trump has been involved in a controversy surrounding the World Cup after Team USA player Folarin Balogun received a red card during a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1. Balogun was ejected from the game and given a one-game suspension, which FIFA stated was final and could not be appealed. Balogun expressed his belief that a yellow card would have been a more appropriate punishment.
On July 6, it was announced that Balogun would return to the lineup for the match against Belgium after the implementation of the red card was suspended for one year. Trump thanked FIFA for reversing the decision, which he described as a great injustice. Reports indicate that Trump’s involvement included a direct call to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, asking for a review of Balogun's suspension.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump communicated to Infantino that many believed the decision was incorrect, leading Infantino to assure him that he would investigate the matter. Following this, Infantino informed Trump that the suspension would be reversed. An unnamed U.S. official confirmed that Trump sought clarification on the red card and suspension, noting that the appeal process is managed by an independent board.
Additionally, senior Trump officials reportedly engaged lawyers to assist the U.S. Soccer Federation in filing an appeal, despite FIFA's rules against such appeals. The U.S. government also provided evidence used in the appeal process.
As a result of the decision to reverse the suspension, Balogun, who is the team's top goal scorer, will be eligible to play against Belgium. The U.S. Men's National Team expressed satisfaction with the ruling, while the Royal Belgian Football Association expressed astonishment, citing FIFA regulations that state red cards result in automatic suspensions. The RBFA is considering all options in response to the reversal, emphasizing the importance of fair play.
Commentators have noted the potential implications of this incident, with some suggesting it could lead to significant controversy during the World Cup.