Trump intervention sparks World Cup storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium

Trump intervention sparks World Cup storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium signals a major clash between football governance and politics. On Sunday, FIFA made an unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s automatic red-card ban, allowing the 25-year-old striker to play Monday’s last-16 match against Belgium in Seattle. The U.S. President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case after Balogun was sent off in the second half following a VAR check against Bosnia and Herzegovina in a 2-0 win. FIFA said the match suspension is suspended for a one-year probationary period under article 27 of its disciplinary code. The ruling followed Trump’s call and drew media attention worldwide, while Belgium reacted angrily and U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino said it was “never a red card” offense.