Trump Thanks FIFA as Balogun's Red Card Lifted for World Cup Clash vs. Belgium

Folarin Balogun will be available for the United States in their World Cup round-of-16 clash against Belgium after FIFA made the unprecedented decision to overturn his red-card suspension. The governing body applied Article 27 of its disciplinary code, placing the striker on a one-year probation instead. President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to thank FIFA, calling the move a correction of a "great injustice." Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously called for the card to be reviewed, arguing the team was let down by the refereeing. Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the U.S. win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32. He stepped on Tarik Muharemovic's ankle, causing a dislocation. Brazilian referee Raphael Claus issued a direct red after a VAR check. FIFA's decision means Balogun will serve no suspension unless he commits a similar offense within the next year. Christian Pulisic said the team found out on the team bus heading to training, and Balogun was all smiles. The 25-year-old has two goals in the tournament and is a key figure for Mauricio Pochettino's side. The ruling has sparked debate across the football world. Unlike club competitions, the World Cup has no official appeals process for red cards—a rule meant to protect referees. Balogun is the 12th player sent off at this World Cup, but the first to have his ban suspended. Critics point to the case of Qatar's Assim Madibo, whose suspension was extended to five matches after breaking the leg of Canada's Ismaël Koné. With the White House publicly thanking FIFA and Trump's known rapport with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, questions about the organization's transparency are growing.