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Trump calls for review of red card in World Cup match

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 12:56 PM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

Trump calls for review of red card in World Cup match

Summary

US President Donald Trump contacted FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to discuss the red card issued to Folarin Balogun during the ongoing World Cup. Following the intervention, FIFA announced that Balogun's suspension will be lifted for the last-16 match against Belgium. This event adds to a history of political meddling in World Cup tournaments, with past instances involving Mussolini and Hitler. As the match approaches, the implications of political influence on sporting events remain a focal point for discussion.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Donald Trump requested a review of Folarin Balogun's red card.
•FIFA has suspended the ban, allowing Balogun to play.
•The last-16 match against Belgium is scheduled for later today.
•Political intervention in World Cups has a noted history.

Latest Updates

12:56 PMYahoo Sports — When politics intruded on the World Cup pitch

What they're saying

"
US President Donald Trump's phone call to FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to have the red card for the co-hosts star striker Folarin Balogun reviewed is the latest instance of political interference in the World Cup.AFP Sport highlights other examples at previous World Cups: 1934 -- Mussolini's Cup Italy's Fascist dictator Benito Mussolini made the most of the country hosting the finals.
— Yahoo Sports

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