Trump’s call and FIFA’s rare red‑card reversal for Balogun

A phone call from US President Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino preceded the governing body’s unexpected revocation of striker Folarin Balogun’s red‑card suspension, clearing the way for the American forward to line up against Belgium at the World Cup. Announced on Sunday evening, the decision sparked surprise across the football world, including the Belgian Football Association, and underscores a rare instance where political pressure appears to intersect with disciplinary rulings. According to multiple sources, including The New York Times, Donald Trump called Gianni Infantino on Wednesday and urged a review of Folarin Balogun’s suspension. The call was made days before FIFA announced its decision. FIFA announced on Sunday evening that the red‑card suspension of Balogun had been revoked, permitting the US striker to face the Belgian national team at the World Cup. The announcement generated surprise worldwide, including among officials of the Belgian Football Association. Balogun had been sent off in the group match against Bosnia and Herzegovina after a hard challenge on Muharemovic’s ankle. The original dismissal was one of the few red cards issued at the tournament.

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In its statement, FIFA cited article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, noting that the suspension was suspended for a one‑year trial period. The clause stipulates that a repeat offence would reactivate the original ban. Infantino and Trump are reported to share a cordial relationship, highlighted by Infantino awarding the FIFA Peace Prize to Trump last year. Trump had previously campaigned for the Nobel Peace Prize but received a consolation gift instead.

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Trump posted on X after the news, writing, “Thanks to FIFA for doing the right thing and correcting a great injustice.” He expressed satisfaction that the decision had been made public. A similar precedent occurred in 2025 when Cristiano Ronaldo received a red‑card waiver after an elbow incident in a qualifier against Ireland. That case also drew criticism of FIFA’s selective disciplinary approach.