Folarin Balogun received a straight red card after a VAR review during the United States’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina|@balogun|X
FIFA has suspended the automatic one-match ban on US striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play against Belgium in Monday’s World Cup last-16 match.
The decision came after President Donald Trump urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review Balogun’s red card, triggering widespread debate over political influence in football.
What happened?
Balogun received a straight red card after a VAR review during the United States’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic.
FIFA kept the red card in place but postponed the suspension for one year under Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code. If Balogun commits a similar offense during that period, FIFA will enforce the ban.
Belgium’s football federation criticized the decision, saying it contradicts World Cup regulations that require an automatic suspension after a red card. The ruling has become one of the tournament’s biggest controversies ahead of the knockout clash.