Infantino on Balogun case: FIFA's disciplinary bodies are independent

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has broken his silence on the decision by the organization's Disciplinary Committee to suspend a one-match ban for United States striker Folarin Balogun. In a statement, Infantino emphasized that the committee operates entirely free from external interference. “I have seen the public discussion around this matter. But it must be understood that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee is an independent body. Its members make decisions based solely on the regulations and the evidence presented. I have no authority to intervene, and I do not do so,” Infantino said. The FIFA chief also confirmed that he spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump about Balogun’s red card. However, Infantino insisted that conversation had no impact on the committee’s ruling. “I maintain good relations with many world leaders, and it is natural to discuss football-related matters. But no one can put pressure on our disciplinary institutions. The decision was made independently,” he added. Balogun was shown a straight red card during a recent appearance for the USMNT, triggering an automatic one-match suspension. Following an appeal, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee temporarily lifted the ban, allowing the forward to play in the next fixture.