FIFA Suspends Balogun’s Ban After Trump’s Appeal Ahead of USA-Belgium Clash
FIFA has suspended the one-match ban of United States forward Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match against Belgium national football team after an appeal by Donald Trump.
According to reports, FIFA decided to suspend the enforcement of Balogun’s suspension for one year. The striker had originally been handed a one-match ban after receiving a red card during the United States’ match against Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team on July 2.
Reports said President Trump requested FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the disciplinary decision. Following the review, FIFA cleared Balogun to feature in the July 7 knockout match against Belgium.
USA-USA-USA 🦅 https://t.co/yKnJxew9tU pic.twitter.com/75KmExgrUJ
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 5, 2026
Trump welcomed the decision and publicly thanked FIFA for reconsidering the suspension.
Meanwhile, the Royal Belgian Football Association expressed strong surprise over FIFA’s ruling and said it is considering legal options. The decision has sparked debate and raised questions about FIFA’s disciplinary process and its independence.
