The Independent
·Jul 2026
Trump, Fifa and Balogun: The World Cup controversy explained
Folarin Balogun’s red card and automatic suspension were overturned by FIFA after a call from Donald Trump to Gianni Infantino, prompting global criticism and questions about political interference. The ruling, made under a rarely used provision of FIFA’s disciplinary code, allowed the United States to keep its top scorer for a key World Cup match against Belgium. Belgium, UEFA and several prominent football figures condemned the decision as unprecedented and damaging to the integrity of the tournament, while some, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, supported the outcome. Debate continues over its implications for future disciplinary decisions and the potential for increased appeals and political pressure on FIFA.