Trump Calls Infantino Over Balogun Red Card: 'It Would Stain This Incredible World Cup'

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he has spoken directly to FIFA President Gianni Infantino about the red card shown to American striker Folarin Balogun. “All I did was ask them to take another look at it, because I didn’t think there was a foul,” Trump said. “If Balogun is taken out of the game, it would stain this incredible World Cup.” The incident happened during a 2026 World Cup match as the U.S. fights to advance from the group stage. Balogun’s sending-off sparked massive backlash online, and now the White House has stepped in. FIFA has not commented on the content of the conversation, but sources confirm Trump and Infantino discussed the matter. Whether the phone call will influence the referees’ final decision remains to be seen.