World Cup: Belgium challenges FIFA's decision clearing Balogun for USA clash

The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) expressed astonishment over FIFA's decision to clear U.S. forward Folarin Balogun for Monday's World Cup Round of 16 match between the USA and Belgium.

In a strong statement released before the game, the RBFA questioned the consistency of FIFA's ruling with its own disciplinary and competition regulations. The Belgian federation stated that FIFA based its decision on Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which allows the FIFA Disciplinary Committee to suspend a previously imposed sanction. However, the RBFA countered by citing Article 66.4 of the same code, which mandates an automatic suspension after a red card. This rule, they asserted, has been consistently applied throughout the tournament.

The RBFA further argued that FIFA's decision contradicts the FIFA World Cup 2026 Competition Regulations. They specifically referenced Article 10.5, which states that a player sent off must automatically be suspended from the team's subsequent match. This provision, the association noted, was also reaffirmed in FIFA World Cup 2026 Circular No. 16 and reiterated in match coordination meetings and workshop presentations.

“

astonished

The Belgian federation warned that FIFA's decision raises broader concerns about the consistent application of disciplinary rules. "In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options," the statement concluded.

The controversy arises just before the highly anticipated knockout match. FIFA has not yet provided further public clarification on its interpretation of the regulations that led to Balogun's clearance.

“

In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options.