Trump confirms he called FIFA chief to overturn US player's red card, igniting political storm at World Cup

The incident

On July 1, US forward Folarin Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina for a tackle on Tarik Muharemovic. Referee Raphael Claus issued a direct red card after a VAR review. The suspension meant Balogun, the team's top scorer with three goals, would miss the round of 16 clash with Belgium.

Trump's intervention

President Trump confirmed on July 6 that he called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of the red card.

I asked for a review because I didn't think it was a foul. I didn't tell them what to do, I can't tell them what to do.

Trump criticized the referee as "a little suspect" and argued that the slow-motion replay used by VAR was unfair, saying he had never realized that was a relevant issue. He later thanked FIFA on Truth Social for "reversing a great injustice."

FIFA's decision

On July 5, FIFA announced it was lifting Balogun's one-match suspension, citing its disciplinary code. The player was placed on a one-year probationary period; any similar infraction would reactivate the ban. The decision, first reported by The Athletic and confirmed by FIFA, is unprecedented in modern World Cup history. The only comparable case came in 1962, when Brazil's Garrincha was allowed to play the final after being sent off in the previous match.

1. Jul 1, 2026Balogun receives a direct red card in the 64th minute against Bosnia and Herzegovina after a VAR review.
2. Jul 5, 2026FIFA announces the suspension is lifted; Balogun is placed on a one-year probationary period.
3. Jul 6, 2026Trump confirms he called Infantino to request a review. Balogun is cleared to play Belgium in the round of 16.

Backlash

UEFA accused FIFA of "crossing a red line," while Belgium's foreign minister called the move incomprehensible. Former FIFA president Joseph Blatter wrote on X:

Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls. They are overturned by rules, evidence and independent bodies. Football must never become a playground for political power.

Portuguese commentator Luís Ribeiro called it "the cherry on top of the disaster cake" and noted Infantino's history of flattering Trump, including creating an award to honor him.

What's next

Balogun is now available for the July 6 match against Belgium. The Belgian football federation has announced it will appeal. The controversy has overshadowed the tournament, with analysts questioning FIFA's independence and the integrity of its disciplinary process.