U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he directly contacted the FIFA president about the red card and suspension of U.S. World Cup forward Folarin Balogun, saying, “I didn’t believe (Balogun’s action) constituted a foul.” This statement emerged as tensions increased over allegations of political involvement after FIFA lifted Balogun’s suspension, enabling him to participate in the Round of 16 game against Belgium.
Trump addressed reporters at the White House on the 6th, stating, “All I did was ask for a review,” and clarified, “I didn’t instruct them to do it.” Speaking about Balogun’s action, which resulted in a red card after he stepped on an opponent’s ankle during the Round of 32 game, Trump said, “I didn’t believe it was a foul,” and explained, “It was simply two players moving at full speed and running into each other.”
He stated, “I can’t tell him (FIFA President Gianni Infantino) what to do,” and added, “An independent disciplinary committee made the right choice.” Trump also referred to the referee who gave the red card as “somewhat of a questionable individual,” suggesting, “Look into his history,” although he did not offer any concrete proof.
Trump referred to the decision as a “terrible choice,” stating, “The slow-motion footage made it appear far worse than it actually was.” He further questioned, “How can you penalize someone for a game that hasn’t even taken place yet? It’s extremely unjust.” This response indirectly questioned FIFA’s regulation, which mandates a suspension for the following match after a player receives a red card.
U.S. media previously stated that Trump contacted Infantino right after the U.S.’s Round of 32 game against Bosnia and Herzegovina on the 1st, asking for a reconsideration of Balogun’s suspension. FIFA’s choice to lift the ban was the first instance in 64 years, dating back to 1962. Concerns about FIFA’s impartiality and fairness have increased, as Trump and Infantino have kept a close connection since Trump’s initial term.
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