FIFA Suspends Balogun Ban, Imposes $40,000 Fine and Probation After Trump Review Request

FIFA suspended the one-match ban imposed on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to start for the United States against Belgium in the World Cup round of 16. The disciplinary committee also imposed a $40,000 fine and placed Balogun on probation for one year.

President Donald Trump stated on Monday that he had asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the red card shown to Balogun during the United States' 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Trump said he requested the review but did not direct any outcome. Balogun started the round-of-16 match and played as Belgium defeated the United States 4-1, with Charles De Ketelaere scoring two goals.

The suspension marked the first time since 1962 that a red card issued during the World Cup did not result in an automatic suspension. FIFA ruled Belgium's appeal of the suspension decision inadmissible. Gianni Infantino stated that FIFA's judicial bodies operate independently and that he had informed Trump the review process was ongoing.

UEFA described the decision as unjustifiable and said the integrity of football was at stake. The Royal Belgian Football Association expressed deep concern that the action threatened football interests. FIFA previously suspended Kenya and Zimbabwe in 2022 for government interference in their national associations.