President Donald Trump revealed his involvement in requesting a review of the red card suspension imposed on U.S. soccer player Folarin Balogun. Following this request, FIFA overturned the decision, allowing Balogun to play in the upcoming match against Belgium.
During an Oval Office event, Trump responded to a reporter’s query, stating, “I asked for a review by FIFA,” but emphasized, “I had nothing to do with the decision.” The reversal has drawn significant attention from the sports community as the U.S. team prepares for its match against Belgium.
Balogun, considered a top U.S. player, initially faced suspension due to a red card received during a match against Bosnia-Herzegovina, where the U.S. emerged victorious. Trump detailed his discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, whom he praised as “highly respected.” Expressing his understanding of sports, Trump described the incident as an accidental encounter between two athletes, not warranting a foul or suspension.
“That was not a guy punching somebody in the face or anything that, you know, would be different,” Trump said, expressing discontent with referee decisions. He argued against barring the star player from the forthcoming World Cup match.
President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino were pictured shaking hands at the Oval Office on March 7, 2025.
Trump criticized the imposition of penalties for games that haven’t occurred, labeling it as unfair. He affirmed, “So, yes, I asked for a review by FIFA.” Despite questioning the potential precedent of powerful leaders influencing team decisions, Trump maintained, “I had nothing to do with the decision.”
Trump predicted an exhilarating game against Belgium, asserting that a win by Belgium in fair play would be commendable, otherwise suggesting manipulation similar to his claims about the 2020 election.
The red card incident incited anger among American fans concerned about the team’s ability without Balogun. The suspension resulted from a replay review indicating Balogun inadvertently stepped on another player’s leg.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, sitting next to Infantino during the game, began inquiries immediately following the incident. According to sources, efforts were made to develop grounds for overturning the red card. Andrew Giuliani from the FIFA White House Task Force informed Trump, catalyzing discussions on federal assistance for the U.S. soccer legal team’s appeal.
A U.S. official mentioned that the government provided additional evidence for the appeal, leading to an “appropriate and correct outcome.” The appeal was managed by an independent board.
The Royal Belgian Football Association expressed opposition to Balogun’s participation via a statement. The association emphasized its commitment to appealing against his eligibility, citing concerns related to ethics, fair competition, and football interests.
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