Trump Confirms FIFA Call Over Balogun Red Card, Says 'Not a Foul'

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he intervened in a World Cup match by calling FIFA to question a red card suspension for American forward Folarin Balogun. Trump stated he only asked for a review of the decision, asserting that he did not believe the action constituted a foul. He emphasized that an independent committee ultimately made the correct decision.

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I only asked for a review because I don't think it was a foul. I just asked for a review, I didn't ask you to do anything.

Balogun had received a red card during a qualifying match, which would have led to a suspension for the subsequent game. FIFA initially announced the suspension was temporarily lifted following Trump's call, a move that drew criticism from various football bodies. The Belgian football association, USA's next opponent, issued a strong statement condemning FIFA's actions.

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That wasn't a foul at all. It wasn't even a violation.

Trump defended his actions, stating that he believed the foul was not a violation and that it would be unfair to suspend a key player. He recounted his own past as an athlete and questioned the referee's judgment, suggesting a review of the official's record. The situation created a political storm around the World Cup, with media outlets highlighting Trump's involvement.

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It's not fair if they take out your best player, or almost the best player, it's so unfair.