FIFA chair independently waives Balogun's suspension ahead of USA-Belgium match
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 3:21 AM
Last updated Jul 13, 2026
FIFA disciplinary chair Mohammad al-Kamali decided alone to waive Folarin Balogun's one-game suspension, allowing him to play in the Round of 16 against Belgium. Balogun received a red card in a previous match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which typically mandates a suspension. The decision, unprecedented in World Cup history, led to outrage from UEFA and prompted Belgium to file an appeal, which was denied. Despite the controversy over the ruling, Balogun participated in the match, which was ongoing as of the latest reports.
- •Balogun received a red card for a foul during the Round of 32.
- •The decision to waive his suspension was made solely by al-Kamali.
- •FIFA typically involves multiple committee members in disciplinary decisions.
- •Belgium appealed the decision, which FIFA denied.
- •The match between USA and Belgium is currently in progress.
- 3:21 AMYahoo Sports — FIFA disciplinary chair waived Folarin Balogun's USA-Belgium suspension on his own, didn't consult 17 other committee members: Report
- 3:21 AMYahoo Sports — Report: FIFA official acted alone in clearing USMNT's Folarin Balogun to face Belgium
"Per the Times of London, important FIFA disciplinary decisions usually involve three members of the disciplinary committee.
"Per the Times of London, important FIFA disciplinary decisions usually involve three members of the disciplinary committee.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 13, 2026, 3:21 AMFIFA disciplinary chair waived Folarin Balogun's USA-Belgium suspension on his own, didn't consult 17 other committee members: Report
Per the Times of London, important FIFA disciplinary decisions usually involve three members of the disciplinary committee.
- Yahoo SportsJul 13, 2026, 3:21 AMReport: FIFA official acted alone in clearing USMNT's Folarin Balogun to face Belgium
Per the Times of London, important FIFA disciplinary decisions usually involve three members of the disciplinary committee.
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