FIFA has suspended the one-match ban for United States striker Folarin Balogun, making him eligible for the World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium.
The 25-year-old forward received a straight red card in the 64th minute of the co-hosts' 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 32.
Referee Raphael Claus issued the card after a VAR review determined that Balogun's boot landed on the ankle of defender Tarik Muharemovic.
The governing body announced on July 5, 2026, that the automatic suspension will be delayed under a probationary framework.
"In line with article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year," FIFA stated.
The governing body clarified that any future disciplinary infractions during this timeframe would result in the immediate reinstatement of the original penalty.
"If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement," FIFA added.
US President Donald Trump expressed his approval of the decision via social media.
"Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J.
TRUMP," Trump wrote on Truth Social.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had earlier commented on the initial disciplinary action during a press conference.
"It was great.
They got screwed with that red card," Rubio said, noting the limitations regarding official challenges at the time.
"There needs to be an appeal process for that. It's probably too late for that," Rubio stated.
Balogun has recorded three goals during the tournament under manager Mauricio Pochettino, including the opening goal against Bosnia-Herzegovina and two goals in a 4-1 group-stage victory against Paraguay, according to BBC Sport.
