FIFA has cleared Folarin Balogun to participate in the USA's World Cup match against Belgium on Saturday. Initially facing a suspension after receiving a red card in the win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, Balogun's eligibility was restored following a review influenced by US President Donald Trump.
FIFA's Decision on Balogun's Suspension
Balogun's red card, issued for a foul on Tarik Muharemovic, would typically result in a one-match suspension according to FIFA regulations. However, FIFA invoked a provision from its Disciplinary Code that allows for such bans to be suspended for a year if no further infractions occur. This is not the first time FIFA has exercised this unusual rule, previously allowing Cristiano Ronaldo to play after a similar incident.
Under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, suspensions can be paused, which has been a point of contention among football associations. Balogun has been pivotal for the Stars and Stripes, scoring three goals in the tournament thus far.
Trump's Role in Balogun's Case
Reports indicate that President Trump personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to advocate for Balogun's case. Trump praised FIFA's decision on his social media platform, declaring it a reversal of a "great injustice." The relationship between Trump and Infantino has been characterized by mutual respect, as evidenced by Trump receiving the FIFA Peace Prize last year.
