FIFA overturns Balogun's suspension after Trump's intervention for World Cup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 7:11 AM
Last updated Jul 6, 2026
FIFA reversed Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension on July 5, ahead of the U.S. facing Belgium in the Round of 16. Balogun was sent off during the U.S. victory over Bosnia & Herzegovina, leading to calls for his reinstatement. Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to advocate for Balogun, whose eligibility for the team stems from birthright citizenship. Critics highlighted the irony of Trump's involvement, given his previous efforts to end such citizenship. Balogun plays for Monaco in Ligue 1.
- •Balogun's red card occurred during the Round of 32 match.
- •Trump's call to FIFA resulted in the suspension being overturned.
- •Balogun's citizenship is related to being born in Brooklyn.
- •Critics have noted the hypocrisy of Trump's actions.
- •The U.S. next plays Belgium in the World Cup Round of 16.
- 7:11 AMYahoo Sports — Donald Trump’s FIFA Intervention Comes With 1 Very Awkward Twist
"The irony alarm sounded over the president's call to FIFA's Peace Prize-awarding boss, Gianni Infantino.
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