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U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly thanked FIFA for suspending the one-match ban imposed on United States striker Folarin Balogun, clearing him to play in the country’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Posting on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump described FIFA’s decision as the right outcome, saying the governing body had corrected what he called a “great injustice” after Balogun’s controversial red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Balogun was initially set to miss the knockout fixture after being sent off during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, FIFA invoked Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code to suspend the enforcement of the one-match ban, making the striker immediately eligible to face Belgium. The suspension has been placed on probation, meaning it could still be enforced if Balogun commits a similar disciplinary offence within the specified period.
The decision has provided a major boost for the United States, with Balogun entering the match as one of the team’s standout performers at the tournament. His availability strengthens the American attack as the co-hosts seek a place in the quarter-finals, while FIFA’s ruling has continued to generate widespread discussion among fans, pundits and political figures.
