Football's European governing body UEFA has strongly criticized FIFA's decision to suspend the red-card ban of US striker Folarin Balogun during the 2026 World Cup. The move came after US President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case.

Balogun, who has scored three goals in the tournament, was initially sent off following a VAR review for dragging his cleats down the back of Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic's leg during the round of 32 match, which the US won. However, FIFA cleared him to play in the upcoming quarterfinal against Belgium.

UEFA expressed "disbelief at such an unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable decision," stating that FIFA had "crossed a red line." The decision has sparked an angry response, particularly from Belgium, and shifted the tournament's focus toward the influence of political power on football governance.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp also weighed in, saying, "This is our sport, not theirs," and criticized the involvement of Trump and Infantino, noting they "know nothing about football" and should have no role in such decisions.

The controversy raises questions about the integrity of FIFA's disciplinary processes and the potential impact of external political influence on the sport.

Sources