Rome – Shortly before the World Cup round of 16 match between the U.S. and Belgium, FIFA lifted the suspension of American forward Folarin Balogun—triggering a major scandal. The manner in which the decision was reached has caused particular outrage: According to reports, U.S. President Donald Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Balogun had been suspended for the next game after receiving a red card. Following intervention from the White House—which was confirmed there—the world governing body rescinded the suspension, allowing the forward to play in the Round of 16. Belgium immediately filed an appeal, calling it a dangerous precedent that undermines the independence of the sport.
Balogun Ruling: CONI President Malagò Voices Sharp Criticism
There was also strong opposition from Italy. Giovanni Malagò, president of the Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC), sharply criticized the reversal; iconic coach Jürgen Klopp expressed similar sentiments. The general consensus: if political pressure takes precedence over sporting rules, the credibility of the competition is at risk.
The incident casts a shadow over an already heated tournament and raises questions about the role of politics in world soccer. For FIFA, which insists on its neutrality, the case is becoming an uncomfortable test—regardless of how the round of 16 ultimately plays out.
