FIFA reversed the automatic one-game suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun on July 5, 2026, clearing him to play in Monday’s Round of 16 World Cup match against Belgium. The decision came after President Donald Trump reportedly called FIFA President Gianni Infantino on July 2 to request a review of the red card Balogun received during the US victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
What actually happened
Balogun picked up a straight red card on July 2 during what was otherwise a triumphant group stage finale for the US. Under standard FIFA rules, a straight red carries an automatic one-match ban, which would have sidelined the striker for the elimination round.
That same day, Trump reportedly contacted Infantino directly to push for a review of the decision. Three days later, FIFA’s disciplinary committee announced it was overturning the suspension using what it described as a “probationary measure.” This mechanism hasn’t been deployed since 1962, making it effectively unprecedented in the modern era of the tournament.
Trump took to Truth Social after the announcement, thanking FIFA for correcting what he called a “great injustice.” Belgium’s football officials were less enthusiastic, signaling they intend to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reversal.
