Diplomatic Pressure on FIFA
According to multiple reports, President Donald Trump personally reached out to FIFA president Gianni Infantino last Wednesday to advocate for a review of the one-match suspension handed to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun. The move comes as part of a growing controversy surrounding the striker's eligibility for the upcoming Round of 16 clash against Belgium.
The relationship between the two figures has been notably close. FIFA recently honored the President with the inaugural "FIFA Peace Prize" during the World Cup draw in December, and expectations remain high that the President will participate in the trophy presentation ceremony on July 19.
The Reversal of the Disciplinary Ruling
On Sunday, FIFA surprised the global soccer community by announcing that Balogun’s automatic suspension—incurred following a straight red card during the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina—had been lifted. Following the announcement, President Trump took to social media to express gratitude toward the governing body for correcting what he termed an "injustice," though he stopped short of confirming his direct involvement in the reversal.
FIFA justified the decision by citing Article 27 of its sporting code, which grants judicial bodies the authority to partially or fully suspend the implementation of disciplinary sanctions. Consequently, Balogun's red card status has been suspended for a one-year period.
Historical Precedent and Public Backlash
This decision marks a rare departure from standard disciplinary procedures. The only prior instance of a player receiving a red card and being cleared for the following match occurred in 1962, when Brazilian star Garrincha was permitted to play in the final despite an ejection in the semifinals. Brazil eventually secured the championship that year.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from the Belgian camp. Belgium's head coach, Rudi Garcia, expressed his disbelief during a press conference, stating:
«I didn't know that at the World Cup the 5th of July is actually the first of April. It's April Fools.»
Controversy Over VAR Procedures
The original incident involved Balogun stepping on the leg of defender Tarik Muharemović. While the foul went uncalled during live play, a video assistant referee (VAR) review led the official to issue a red card. Critics of the process pointed out that, per FIFA’s own regulations, reviews concerning the intensity of an offense "should" be viewed at normal speed, whereas the replay seen by the referee was displayed in slow motion.