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Trump called FIFA chief to review Balogun’s red card — Report

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Unnamed sources Outcome reported
  • U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review Folarin Balogun's World Cup suspension.
  • Balogun received a straight red card, which typically incurs an automatic one-game ban.
  • FIFA controversially suspended the ban for one year, allowing Balogun to play in the USA's next match.

U.S. President Donald Trump intervened in a World Cup suspension, reportedly calling FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the ban on American striker Folarin Balogun. The New York Times cited three unnamed sources familiar with the decision.

Balogun was initially sent off for inadvertently stepping on an opponent during the USA's 2-0 victory in the last 32. Under FIFA rules, a straight red card results in an automatic one-game suspension, making Balogun ineligible for the USA's upcoming Round of 16 match against Belgium.

However, following Trump's call on Wednesday, FIFA made an unusual decision on Sunday to suspend the ban for one year. This means Balogun is now eligible to play against Belgium.

Trump publicly thanked FIFA for "reversing a great injustice." The Belgian football association expressed astonishment at FIFA's decision, highlighting the departure from standard protocol.

reversing a great injustice.

— Donald TrumpCommenting on FIFA's decision to overturn Balogun's suspension.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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