Brazilian football body defends referee after Trump criticism

The Brazilian Football Confederation has strongly defended referee Raphael Claus, an exemplary professional, after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly criticized his integrity. Trump questioned Claus's record following a red card issued to American forward Folarin Balogun during a World Cup qualifier match.

“

There are absolutely no grounds for doubt or suspicion in the career history of Raphael Claus.

In a statement to AFP, the confederation asserted that Claus's career history contains "no grounds for doubt or suspicion." They firmly rejected any insinuations questioning his integrity, emphasizing his status as a model professional. Claus is a veteran referee with over 400 matches officiated, including 263 in Brazil's top league, and has officiated at the 2022 Qatar World Cup and the 2024 Copa America final.

“

The Football Confederation rejects any insinuation that questions the integrity of Claus. He is an exemplary professional.

Trump's criticism came after he reportedly called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun's suspension. The player's red card would have made him ineligible for the next match against Belgium. Following Trump's intervention, the suspension was deferred for one year, a decision unprecedented since 1962. Trump expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating his "respect level for Infantino went up tenfold."

“

His past record, you look into it, it's a little questionable. He made a call that nobody can believe.

However, the decision has drawn widespread criticism from other football associations and media outlets. The Belgian Football Association expressed "utter disbelief" that the penalty deferral was applied only to the U.S. team, while other players who received red cards faced standard suspensions. UEFA called the decision "unprecedented, incomprehensible, and unjustifiable," crossing a "red line." The Guardian and Le Monde also published critical commentary, suggesting FIFA's decision was influenced by Trump's intervention, casting a shadow of political interference over the World Cup disciplinary process.

“

99.9% of people recognize that it was an unfair red card.