The Royal Belgian Football Association is shocked by FIFA's decision…
The Royal Belgian Football Association is shocked by FIFA's decision to allow the US national team player, Folarin Balogun, who has been disqualified, to participate in the USA vs Belgium match. Journalist Ben Jacobs stated that FIFA revoked Balogun's ban for the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 match following an appeal from the White House to FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Consensus
- FIFA suspended the automatic suspension of Folarin Balogun after he received a red card during the round-of-16 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Balogun was removed from the field on the 64th minute for a foul against Tarik Muharemovic.
- The match between USA and Belgium is scheduled for July 6, Moscow time.
- FIFA's disciplinary committee suspended Balogun’s suspension for one year as a conditional measure.
- Balogun had scored three goals in the tournament so far and was considered a key player for the US team.
Points of divergence
- The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) expressed surprise at FIFA's decision, stating it contradicts regulations of the 2026 World Cup. — vesti
- White House contacted FIFA directly to request a review of Balogun’s red card, and President Donald Trump publicly supported this action in Truth Social. — fontanka
- Sources within FIFA deny that the White House call influenced the decision; they claim it was made by an independent disciplinary committee. — vedomosti
Coverage (4 sources)
- Belgium speaks out on FIFA's decision to suspend Balogun's ban — Вести
- Unprecedented scandal at the 2026 World Cup: US player's red card overturned after Trump call — Фонтанка
- FIFA cancels red card for US striker before match with Belgium at the 2026 World Cup — Ведомости
- FIFA rescinded Balogun's red card after call from the White House — Вести
Key entities
- FIFA
- Folarin Balogun
- USA
- Belgium
- White House
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Moscow
- Donald Trump
- X
- Seattle
- The Athletic
- Gianni Infantino
- Royal Belgian Football Association
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