President Donald Trump is explaining how USMNT striker Folarin Balogun will still be eligible to play in the World Cup game on Monday (July 6) despite initially facing an automatic one-game suspension for a red card, sparking global backlash.
If you didn’t know, FIFA announced over the weekend that Folarin could still play in the game against Belgium, despite receiving a red card penalty.
Trump Says He Asked Gianni Infantino for a Review
Trump said he asked FIFA chief Gianni Infantino for a review of the situation.
“All I did was ask for a review. I didn’t say, ‘You have to do this,’” Trump said in response to international outcry and speculation about his direct involvement in FIFA’s decision, via CNN.
He added that he personally “didn’t think it was a foul,” and called it “two guys running full speed that happened to crash into each other.”
“He didn’t do anything wrong,” Trump added.
“I didn’t tell him what to do, I can’t tell him what to do,” he also said, adding that an independent committee “made the right decision.”
Trump also questioned the referee, claiming he was a “little bit suspect” for telling reporters to “check his past.”
During the play, a video assistant referee called attention to the incident and decided it was a red card for “serious foul play.”
Belgium Challenges Folarin Balogun’s Eligibility
The Royal Belgium Football Association filed an appeal of FIFA’s decision.
“To be clear, as of this moment, the RBFA has still not received any decision or any explanation from FIFA regarding this matter. It therefore has no alternative but to challenge the player’s eligibility for the upcoming match,” the RBFA said in a statement, per CNN.
Notably, President Donald Trump was presented with FIFA’s brand new Peace Prize during the 2026 World Cup draw last year.
Find out more about the surprising decision that has sparked international outrage, and see when to tune in for the game.
Posted To:2026 Fifa World Cup Donald Trump Fifa Fifa World Cup Gianni Infantino World Cup
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