FIFA criticized for decision to lift U.S. star's red card suspension following Trump phone call

FIFA faced criticism for reversing the red-card suspension of U.S. forward Folarin Balogun, enabling him to play against Belgium on Monday. CBS News reported that Balogun’s reinstatement came after President Donald Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Thursday and discussed the suspension, which would have kept the 25-year-old out of the round-of-16 match. The Union of European Football Associations said FIFA “crossed a red line,” expressing “disbelief” at a decision it described as unprecedented and unjustifiable. Belgium’s national federation also said it was “astonished,” arguing the ruling contradicts FIFA’s rules. The criticism extended beyond football officials, with former players Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville condemning the decision and calling for a review. The European Union’s Commissioner for Sport warned against political influence on sporting outcomes.