FIFA lifts Balogun ban after single official decision

FIFA's decision to overturn an automatic suspension for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in a crucial World Cup match, has ignited a major controversy over the governing body's procedures and independence. New reports indicate the unprecedented move was made by a single official without consulting the full disciplinary committee, raising questions about political influence and transparency.

Balogun received a red card for a serious foul during the United States' Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1, 2026, triggering an automatic one-match ban that would have sidelined him for the Round of 16 game against Belgium. However, FIFA invoked Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code, a rarely used provision, to suspend the ban for a probationary period. This allowed Balogun to play against Belgium on July 6, a match the U.S. lost 4-1.

The decision drew immediate criticism from other football bodies and nations. UEFA, European football's governing body, called it "unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable." The controversy intensified when U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he had called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of...