FIFA reversed a one-game suspension for United States forward Folarin Balogun on Sunday, July 5, 2026, allowing him to play in the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle on Monday, July 6, 2026.
The decision lifted the automatic ban resulting from a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, prompting sharp criticism from UEFA and other football officials.
>>> Actor Cristo Fernandez Joins World Cup 2026 Coin Toss Ceremony
UEFA and Blatter Condemn Decision
UEFA issued a public rebuke, stating that a minimum one-match suspension after a red card is not discretionary and must be enforced.
"When the certainty of rules is no longer guaranteed by its guardians, the integrity of the game is at stake," UEFA said in an official statement.
Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter also condemned the move on social media, writing, "Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls."
Blatter added that the tournament "must never become a playground for political power."
Norway coach Ståle Solbakken called it "a bad, bad, bad, bad, bad decision that will hurt the World Cup."
>>> Nottingham Forest Appoints Oliver Glasner as Head Coach
Belgium Files Emergency Appeal
Belgium filed an emergency appeal challenging the suspension waiver, with FIFA requiring written submissions from both federations before an independent judge hears the case.
Reports indicated that U. S.
President Donald Trump influenced FIFA President Gianni Infantino on the matter, sparking global backlash.
Balogun commented on his tackle against Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic, suggesting, "I think a yellow card would have been fair."
>>> Wibra Posts Record Profit as International Expansion Accelerates
Analysts noted that Balogun's availability allows the USMNT to maintain its preferred attacking setup against the favored Belgian side.
