Trump intervenes as FIFA lifts Balogun suspension

SEATTLE – U.S. President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino before football's governing body made the extraordinary decision to suspend the one-match ban imposed on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun. The ruling allows Balogun to play in the United States' Round of 32 World Cup match against Belgium.

Balogun was sent off during the Americans' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after VAR upgraded his challenge to a straight red card. Under FIFA regulations, a direct red card normally results in an automatic one-match suspension.

However, FIFA invoked a rarely used article of its Disciplinary Code, allowing the suspension to be put on hold under exceptional circumstances. While the red card remains on Balogun's record, he is eligible to face Belgium and will remain under a one-year probation period.

According to several international media outlets, Trump urged Infantino to have FIFA review the case. After the decision was announced, the U.S. president publicly thanked FIFA for what he described as "doing the right thing."

The decision sparked strong criticism in Belgium. The Belgian Football Association said it was surprised by the ruling and is considering legal options, arguing that the decision conflicts with FIFA's normal disciplinary procedures.

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino welcomed the ruling, saying justice had been served because Balogun should never have received a red card. With three goals already in the tournament, Balogun is considered one of the United States' key attacking players.

The case has triggered an international debate over FIFA's independence and whether political influence played a role in one of the World Cup's most controversial disciplinary decisions.