President Donald Trump has publicly thanked FIFA for suspending the red card ban imposed on United States striker Folarin Balogun during the 2026 World Cup. The decision allows Balogun to play in the crucial Round of 16 match against Belgium on Monday, July 6, 2026.
FIFA Suspends Red Card Under Article 27
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee announced the suspension of the red card Balogun received during the USA's Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. According to The Guardian, FIFA’s disciplinary committee stated the decision was made in line with Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which permits the committee to suspend red cards as long as the discipline is not related to match-fixing.
Trump's reaction came via a post on The White House X handle @WhiteHouse on Sunday, July 5, 2026: “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right and reversing a great injustice.”
Mixed Public Reactions to FIFA's Decision
The decision has sparked a wide range of reactions from the public. Some questioned the rationale behind the suspension rather than an outright overturn. User @Gabriel15532606 commented, “First, I’m American, and I admit I do not know much about soccer, but why is it suspended and not overturned? He either committed an offence worthy of a red card and suspension or not. Did it get reduced to a yellow card? When is it suspended until?”
Others accused FIFA of favoritism toward the host nation. @ToxicGoonerHQ wrote, “If this were any smaller country, the suspension stands, and they play with 10. FIFA is writing the script for the hosts as usual. Can't wait to see Vertonghen put him in his pocket anyway.”
Criticism also targeted FIFA President Gianni Infantino. @MohWorldent stated, “Infantino needs to be in chains for ruining this sport this badly. As if creating a fake FIFA award for Trump isn't enough, they're now cancelling red cards for Uncle Sam. Pathetic.”
Background: Calls for Trump to Intervene
Prior to FIFA's decision, USMNT supporters had flooded social media with calls for President Trump to help reverse Balogun's suspension. The American striker was initially set to miss the Round of 16 clash after receiving a straight red card, and FIFA regulations left the United States with virtually no route to overturn the decision through normal channels.
The suspension has significant implications for the host nation's chances in the tournament, as Balogun is a key player for the USA. The match against Belgium is expected to be a tough contest, and his availability could be a decisive factor.
Trump's Recent Passport Announcement
In related news, President Trump recently revealed a special commemorative passport featuring his image and the Declaration of Independence. Reactions from Americans about the passport have been mixed, with some raising concerns about its message and impact on American values and identity.
