Trump called FIFA head to seek review of US player red card – Source

United States striker Folarin Balogun has been cleared to play in his country's 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium after FIFA suspended his automatic one-match ban, a decision that has sparked widespread debate across the football world.

The move followed reports that U.S. President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino earlier in the week, requesting a review of the red card shown to Balogun during the United States' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. FIFA later confirmed that the suspension would be deferred under a one-year probation period, allowing the striker to feature against Belgium.

Balogun, 25, was initially handed a straight red card after a challenge on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic during the second half of the knockout match.

The incident occurred as both players contested a looping ball. While attempting to shield possession, Balogun's foot came down on the back of Muharemovic's ankle after the defender moved in front of him. Following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, Brazilian referee Raphael Claus upgraded the offence to a straight red card.

Under FIFA regulations, a direct red card normally carries an automatic one-match suspension.

However, in an unexpected decision announced on Sunday, FIFA ruled that the suspension would be placed on hold for a probationary period of one year rather than taking immediate effect.

In a statement, FIFA said the decision was made under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which allows the implementation of certain sanctions to be suspended under specific circumstances.

The governing body explained that Balogun would remain eligible for Monday's clash against Belgium, but warned that if he commits another offence of similar nature and seriousness within the next year, the suspended one-match ban would automatically be enforced in addition to any new disciplinary punishment.

President Donald Trump praised FIFA's decision shortly after the announcement, describing the original punishment as unfair.

Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote: "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice."

Reports indicate that Trump had spoken directly with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the incident after concerns were raised over the severity of the punishment. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also publicly questioned the decision, arguing that there should be an appeal process for controversial red-card incidents.

Balogun has been one of the standout performers for the United States during the tournament.

The former Arsenal striker has scored crucial goals for head coach Mauricio Pochettino, helping the Americans reach the knockout stages with impressive attacking displays.

His availability is viewed as a significant boost ahead of the high-stakes encounter with Belgium, where the United States will be aiming to reach the quarter-finals.

FIFA's decision has generated strong reactions from football authorities and observers around the world.

Several officials questioned the unprecedented nature of suspending an automatic World Cup red-card ban during an ongoing tournament, while the Royal Belgian Football Association expressed surprise and began reviewing its options. Meanwhile, UEFA criticized the ruling, arguing that it risks undermining confidence in football's disciplinary system and the consistent application of the rules.

The controversy has shifted attention beyond the pitch, raising broader questions about FIFA's disciplinary procedures, transparency and the role of political influence in international sport.

Despite the debate, Balogun is now available for selection as the United States prepares for one of its biggest matches of the tournament against Belgium.