US President Donald Trump has confirmed that he appealed to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the red card issued to American striker Folarin Balogun. On Monday in Washington, he stated that he did not consider the referee’s decision justified, adding that he had “merely asked for a review” because he did not believe a foul had actually taken place.
FIFA had previously announced that the suspension imposed on Balogun due to the red card had been suspended, meaning the top scorer is cleared to participate in the World Cup round of sixteen match between the host USA and Belgium. Publicly, Trump thanked FIFA for “doing the right thing” and reversing what he called a “great injustice.”
Conversely, the Belgian federation is challenging the suspension and insists there is “no other option.” The Belgians reported sending a letter to FIFA requesting a copy of the decision regarding the Balogun case and an explanation of the procedure used. According to “The Athletic”, a member of the FIFA appeal committee, who does not belong to any UEFA or CONCACAF body, will be responsible for ruling on the matter.
