Trump pressure reverses Balogun ban before Belgium loss

A controversial intervention by former U.S. President Donald Trump led to the unprecedented overturning of a World Cup suspension for American striker Folarin Balogun, a decision the player has since acknowledged unsettled his team before its elimination from the tournament. The U.S. Men’s National Team, co-hosting the 2026 World Cup, ultimately lost its Round of 16 match to Belgium 4-1 in Seattle, but the saga surrounding Balogun’s eligibility has dominated post-tournament discussion.

Balogun, 25, received a red card for serious foul play during the United States’ group stage victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Under standard FIFA rules, the ejection carried an automatic one-match suspension, which would have sidelined him for the knockout match against Belgium on July 5. However, in an unusual procedural move, FIFA’s disciplinary committee chair, Mohammad al-Kamali, acted alone to suspend the ban, clearing Balogun to play just hours before the game.

The reversal followed direct political pressure. President Trump confirmed he had contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to characterize the red card as unfair and request a review. While FIFA and Infantino have stated the...