FIFA has suspended the one-game ban on Folarin Balogun, enabling the U.S. forward to compete in the World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium. This decision was endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Balogun had received a red card for his involvement in a 2-0 victory against Bosnia and Herzegovina. He stepped awkwardly on the foot of Tarik Muharemović, which led to the automatic suspension. Players became aware of the suspension delay via social media during a bus ride to training.
Defender Chris Richards expressed initial skepticism, saying, “We thought it was AI at first.”
President Trump commended FIFA’s decision through social media, acknowledging their fair judgment. FIFA’s President Gianni Infantino has previously strengthened relations with Trump.
Christian Pulisic, another U.S. star, commented, suggesting that Balogun’s action lacked intent and seemed less severe than other fouls observed in the tournament.
The U.S. Soccer Federation received FIFA’s official notice at 10:31 a.m. EDT, indicating that the suspension will be put on hold for one year. If Balogun commits a similar offense during this period, the suspension will be reinstated along with any new penalties.
Balogun has been instrumental, scoring three key goals for the U.S. He currently matches Landon Donovan’s record from 2010, trailing only Bert Patenaude’s achievement of four goals in 1930. A player for Monaco, Balogun accumulated 13 Ligue 1 goals last season and has 12 goals in 30 appearances internationally.
Born in Brooklyn, Balogun changed his national team allegiance from England to the U.S. in 2023. Richards highlighted Balogun’s ability to challenge defenders effectively.
The U.S. team aims to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. They have experienced elimination in the round of 16 against teams like Ghana, Belgium, and the Netherlands in various years, while failing to qualify in 2018.
Though unavailable for comment, Balogun shared a social media post featuring himself with U.S. fans and music associated with Michael Jackson’s “Bad.” On prior occasions, Balogun regarded his punishment as disproportionate, believing a yellow card would be fair.
FIFA clarified their decision, referencing Article 27 of disciplinary rules, which allows the suspension of sanctions for probationary periods lasting up to four years.
FIFA has previously deferred bans for other players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Nicolás Otamendi, and Moisés Caicedo, thereby permitting them to play in crucial matches.
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