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Sport: SoccerCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Donald Trump praises FIFA for lifting Folarin Balogun's suspension

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 5:26 PM

Last updated Jul 5, 2026

Donald Trump praises FIFA for lifting Folarin Balogun's suspension
Summary

Folarin Balogun is set to play for the USMNT in their World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium on July 6 after FIFA reversed his one-game ban. The striker received a controversial red card during the recent Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina but was deemed eligible by FIFA. President Donald Trump expressed gratitude towards FIFA for their decision, characterizing the initial suspension as a 'great injustice.' Balogun has contributed significantly to the tournament with three goals and three assists through the first three matches. The USMNT is aiming for a quarterfinal berth for the first time since 2002.

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By the Numbers
  • •Folarin Balogun available for USMNT vs. Belgium on July 6
  • •Initial red card led to one-game suspension
  • •Trump thanked FIFA for reversing the ban
  • •Balogun has three goals and three assists this tournament
  • •USMNT last reached quarterfinals in 2002
Latest Updates
  • 9:12 PMYahoo Sports — White House called FIFA’s Infantino to review Team USA’s Folarin Balogun’s red card, AP source says
  • 5:26 PMYahoo Sports — Donald Trump thanks FIFA for reversing 'great injustice' on Folarin Balogun ban
What they're saying
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Trump celebrated the red card reversal shortly after it was announced, posting on his social media network, “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!”

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The President of the United States (and winner of the FIFA Peace Prize) weighed in on FIFA's decision to allow the USMNT striker to play.

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