UEFA has strongly criticized FIFA after world football’s governing body suspended the one-match World Cup ban on USA striker Folarin Balogun following intervention from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Balogun, sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, was cleared to play against Belgium after FIFA delayed his suspension for a one-year probation period without overturning the red card. UEFA described the move as a threat to football’s integrity, while former FIFA president Sepp Blatter, former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, England coach Thomas Tuchel and the Belgian Football Association also questioned the decision.
The controversy has intensified concerns over FIFA’s disciplinary independence during the FIFA World Cup 2026 and sparked widespread debate across the football community.