Calls for Fifa president Infantino to resign over Balogun World Cup incident
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 7, 2026, 6:38 AM
Last updated Jul 7, 2026
Fifa president Gianni Infantino is facing renewed calls to resign following the overturning of Folarin Balogun’s suspension during the World Cup. Balogun, who was sent off in a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, was allowed to play in the round of 16 versus Belgium after intervention from U.S. President Donald Trump. This decision has sparked criticism from figures including former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and former England striker Gary Lineker, with both questioning the integrity of the sport. Politicians and football leaders in the UK have also condemned Infantino's actions and demanded accountability. Infantino has been in office since 2016 and aims to run for another term in 2027.
- •Infantino faces backlash over Balogun's World Cup suspension reversal.
- •Balogun played in the round of 16 after Trump's intervention.
- •Jurgen Klopp and Gary Lineker criticized the decision's integrity.
- •UK politicians are calling for Infantino to resign.
- •Infantino has served as Fifa president since 2016.
- 3:38 PMYahoo Sports — Gianni Infantino's FIFA resignation stance amid Donald Trump World Cup interference calls
- 6:38 AMYahoo Sports — Fifa president Gianni Infantino faces calls to resign as Gary Lineker joins backlash to World Cup controversy
"Gianni Infantino is facing widespread calls to resign as FIFA president following President Donald Trump's stated involvement in overturning U.S. Men's National Team striker Folarin Balogun's red card suspension at the World Cup
"Infantino has been heavily criticised for the overturning of Folarin Balogun’s suspension after apparent interference from President Trump
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 7, 2026, 3:38 PMGianni Infantino's FIFA resignation stance amid Donald Trump World Cup interference calls
Gianni Infantino is facing widespread calls to resign as FIFA president following President Donald Trump's stated involvement in overturning U.S. Men's National Team striker Folarin Balogun's red card suspension at the World Cup
- Yahoo SportsJul 7, 2026, 6:38 AMFifa president Gianni Infantino faces calls to resign as Gary Lineker joins backlash to World Cup controversy
Infantino has been heavily criticised for the overturning of Folarin Balogun’s suspension after apparent interference from President Trump
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