2026World Cup/ Balogun red Card u-turn sparks World Cup fury
FIFA has overturned the red card of Folarin Balogun, sparking outrage across the football world. The American striker will now face Belgium in Monday’s last-16 clash, despite being sent off against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The decision breaks with decades of precedent. Of 189 World Cup red cards, only two players have avoided suspension. The other was Brazil’s Garrincha in 1962, when no automatic ban existed.
FIFA cited Article 27 of its disciplinary code, which allows suspension of disciplinary measures. The governing body offered no explanation. The rule has never been used this way at a World Cup.
Questions multiply. Why did Balogun receive a reprieve when 11 other sent-off players served bans? Why was his suspension reduced to one match instead of the mandatory two for serious foul play?
The timing raises eyebrows. US President Donald Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Thursday, sources confirmed to CBS News. Hours later, Balogun’s ban was suspended.
Belgium is furious. The federation issued a statement condemning a decision that “contradicts tournament regulations.” Coach Rudi Garcia quipped: “I didn’t know July 5 is now April Fools.”
UEFA also slammed the move. “Football rests on rules,” the European body stated. “This crossed a red line.”
