Folarin Balogun: FIFA faces backlash over red card reversal after former president Sepp Blatter publicly criticized the organization for overturning the U.S. striker’s suspension. Blatter warned that football must not become influenced by political power, citing reports that U.S. President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review.
Folarin Balogun was sent off during the United States’ 2-0 Round of 32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina after catching Tarik Muharemović on the ankle. Brazilian referee Raphael Claus issued the red card following a VAR review, which triggered an automatic one-match ban. However, FIFA lifted the suspension under Article 27 of its disciplinary rules, placing Folarin Balogun on probation for one year instead.
Blatter took to X to voice his concerns, stating, “Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls. They are overturned by rules, evidence and independent bodies.” He added, “If a U.S. President intervenes with the FIFA President — and a player is suddenly cleared before a World Cup knockout match — the question is unavoidable: Quo vadis, FIFA? Football must never become a playground for political power.”
Belgium reacted angrily, with its football association saying it was “astonished” and exploring options to protect the competition’s integrity. Coach Rudi Garcia called the decision unprecedented. Meanwhile, U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino welcomed the ruling, arguing the original red card was unfair. This controversy over Folarin Balogun’s red card reversal remains a major talking point, raising questions about FIFA’s independence in disciplinary matters.