Integrity of World Cup is questioned as Trump, FIFA defend actions surrounding Balogun suspension

Integrity of World Cup is questioned as Trump, FIFA defend actions surrounding Balogun suspension. FIFA President Gianni Infantino acknowledged taking a call from U.S. President Donald Trump before Folarin Balogun was cleared to play Belgium later Monday in Seattle. Balogun had been issued a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, leading to a suspension for the round of 16, which FIFA lifted on Sunday. The decision triggered a dispute in which Belgium’s federation challenged FIFA’s ruling not to enforce a ban; UEFA called it an “incomprehensible” breach of the sport’s rule of law. A FIFA appeals judge dismissed Belgium’s challenge less than eight hours before kickoff. FIFA said Belgium’s federation lacked standing, while it was unclear if an urgent appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport could proceed quickly. Norway’s federation also cited concern over FIFA’s lack of legal explanation. Infantino said disciplinary bodies acted independently under applicable regulations.