Trump called FIFA chief over US star's suspension before reversal: report

Donald Trump intervened in a FIFA decision regarding a one-game suspension for US national team striker Folarin Balogun, according to a report by The New York Times. Trump reportedly urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to reconsider the red card Balogun received during a World Cup match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice.

FIFA subsequently reversed its decision, stating that the implementation of Balogun's suspension would be suspended for a probationary period of one year. The governing body clarified that if Balogun commits a similar offense during this period, the original suspension would be enforced. US Soccer accepted the decision, with a spokesperson expressing pleasure at Balogun's eligibility to play.

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We are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow.

However, the Royal Belgian Football Association voiced its "astonishment" at FIFA's ruling. The RBFA pointed to Article 66.4 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which they claim automatically results in a suspension for a red card offense, directly contradicting FIFA's decision based on Article 27. The association indicated it was investigating all potential options.

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We found out about it just coming over here. At first, you're like, 'Oh really, is this real?' And then 'Oh, this is great news'.