Trump Reportedly Called FIFA President Over Player Suspension, Balogun Ban Lifted Suddenly

The 2026 World Cup is once again mired in controversy after FIFA controversially rescinded a suspension for US forward Folarin Balogun just before a crucial Round of 16 match against Belgium. The decision has raised serious questions about the independence of world football's governing body.

FIFA announced on Sunday, July 6, 2026, that Balogun would be eligible to play, despite receiving a straight red card in the US's 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the Round of 32. FIFA's Disciplinary Committee, it stated, had suspended the automatic one-match ban based on Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, allowing the striker to feature against Belgium.

The ruling immediately sparked a firestorm. ABC, citing ESPN, confirmed reports that US President Donald Trump had contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino after the US win, requesting a review of Balogun's red card. Trump later celebrated the decision on social media, posting, "Thank you to FIFA for doing the right thing and overturning a great injustice!"

Belgium was the first to protest, arguing that FIFA's decision contradicted its own Disciplinary Code and the 2026 World Cup Competition Regulations, which clearly stipulate that an automatic red card results in a ban for the next match. "Based on the competition rules, a player who receives a direct or indirect red card must serve an automatic suspension in the next match," the Belgian FA stated.

Balogun's case adds to a growing list of non-technical issues plaguing the 2026 World Cup. Previously, Iran complained about administrative hurdles and restrictions in the US that hindered their preparations. The US itself faced criticism over the presence of a Somali referee, despite FIFA's assurances. Off the field, many fans from various nations have reported issues with visas, security checks, and access restrictions, detracting from the ideal World Cup experience. These controversies suggest external factors are influencing the competition's progression.