2026 World Cup: How Trump forced FIFA to overturn Balogun’s red card
President Trump Intervenes in FIFA Suspension of Folarin Balogun
President Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday to discuss the suspension of U.S. soccer star Folarin Balogun during the 2026 World Cup. Balogun received a red card in a recent match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, leading to a one-match suspension.
According to the New York Times, sources familiar with the conversation indicated that Trump urged Infantino to reconsider the ban on Balogun.
FIFA announced on Sunday that Balogun would be eligible to compete against Belgium in the knockout round of the tournament. This decision marks a rarity, as it is the first time since 1962 that FIFA has permitted a player to participate in a match after being suspended.
The development comes amid Infantino’s ongoing efforts to build a rapport with the U.S. president. Last year, FIFA honored Trump with the FIFA Peace Prize during his public campaign for the Nobel Peace Prize, which did not succeed.