The football world is in turmoil after the White House intervened with FIFA to review US star Folarin Balogun's red card, resulting in the overturning of his suspension for the Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Donald Trump celebrated the decision, with reports indicating the US president directly called FIFA counterpart Gianni Infantino, intensifying scrutiny of their relationship.
"Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump said.
Red Card Overturned Under Controversial Circumstances
Players issued red cards at the World Cup are automatically banned for one game, but Balogun's sanction has been put on hold. FIFA cited "article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code," prompting an "astonished" Belgian Football Association to argue the decision was in "direct contradiction" of World Cup regulations.
"In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options," Belgium's governing body said.
Belgium Considers Legal Challenge
Any challenge would need to come quickly, with the US-Belgium match kicking off on Monday local time (Tuesday AEST). Not since 1962 has a player sent off had his red card rescinded to play in the next match.
Balogun was sent off in the United States' 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 after a VAR review. The referee issued the red card after replays showed Balogun, who scored the opening goal to bring his tournament tally to three, had stepped on the back leg of Tarik Muharemovic.
US Soccer Welcomes Decision
"We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete (against Belgium)," US Soccer said. "Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans."
More to come...
