Balogun comments on Trump's controversial FIFA intervention

Sky Sports Football1 min read • Latest: Jul 14, 2026, 3:52 PM

Last updated Jul 14, 2026

Balogun comments on Trump's controversial FIFA intervention
Summary

Folarin Balogun acknowledged that President Trump’s involvement in lifting his World Cup suspension was destined to spark controversy. After receiving a red card in the USA's last-32 match against Bosnia, FIFA suspended Balogun's ban for a year, enabling his participation against Belgium. Balogun expressed mixed emotions about the situation and noted increased pressure on his teammates. In response, the human rights group FairSquare filed a complaint with the IOC, alleging breaches of political neutrality by FIFA officials during the intervention. FIFA has yet to clarify the rationale behind the suspension of Balogun's ban.

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Key Details
  • Balogun received a red card against Bosnia in the round of 32.
  • FIFA suspended his one-match ban for a year after Trump's intervention.
  • FairSquare alleges FIFA breached political neutrality rules.
  • Balogun expressed shock at the red card decision.
  • The USA faced Belgium in the last-16 match.
What they're saying
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USA striker Folarin Balogun predicted President Trump's involvement in overturning his World Cup suspension would "cause a lot of controversy".

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