Governing body of football in Belgium, based in Tubize
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has suspended the enforcement of Balogun’s red card for a year, allowing him to play in the USA’s last-16 match against Belgium. The decision follows controversy and questions over FIFA’s processes and Article 27 of the disciplinary code.
Folarin Balogun has been ruled to continue for the World Cup knockout clash after FIFA suspends his automatic red-card ban following a personal appeal from President Trump. The decision has drawn sharp reactions from Belgium and other observers as the co-hosts push toward the quarterfinals.
FIFA has suspended the implementation of Balogun’s red-card sanction following a direct appeal by Donald Trump to Gianni Infantino, prompting wide criticism and reigniting questions about political influence in football. The move allows Balogun to play in the next World Cup match against Belgium, marking a rare departure from standard disciplinary practice.
The FIFA appeals committee has declared the RBFA’s challenge inadmissible, confirming that Balogun is eligible to play against Belgium. Belgium plans further action while the US awaits the match in Seattle. The dispute has drawn in political figures and sparked questions about FIFA’s integrity.
FIFA has scrapped its plan to sell a minority stake in World Cup assets after broad, global backlash. UEFA and other confederations had threatened boycotts and demand reforms. The leadership faces renewed scrutiny as talks to rebuild trust begin.