What Happened
Folarin Balogun is set to play in the U.S. Men's National Team's World Cup match against Belgium after FIFA reversed a suspension that would have kept him from playing. The decision came after U.S. Soccer appealed the red card Balogun received in a prior game.
Reports indicate that the White House contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the red card incident. This intervention by the White House, as reported by an AP source to Scripps News, played a role in FIFA's reconsideration of the suspension.
While the specific details of the red card incident are not provided, the successful appeal ensures Balogun's availability for the crucial match against Belgium in the 2026 World Cup.
Key Facts
- 1
Folarin Balogun's red card suspension has been overturned by FIFA.
- 2
Balogun will now play in the U.S. Men's National Team's World Cup match against Belgium.
- 3
U.S. Soccer appealed the red card suspension.
- 4
The White House reportedly contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the red card.
- 5
The appeal was successful in getting the match ban suspended.
