The White House apparently played at least a small role in FIFA overturning the red card issued to U.S. men's soccer star Folarin Balogun.
On Sunday, FIFA announced that Balogun's red card had been suspended. He will be eligible to play in Monday night's game against Belgium. The U.S. will look to advance to the Round of 8 for the first time since 2002.
FIFA released a statement, making the ruling official.
"USA striker Folarin Balogun will be available to play in the co-host’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match against Belgium on Monday at Seattle Stadium. The FIFA Disciplinary Committee issued an update on Sunday on the status of the 25-year-old New York-born attacker, who has three goals for the Stars & Stripes at these global finals," FIFA announced on Sunday.
© Phil Noble-Reuters via Imagn Images.
FIFA made it clear that Balogun would be able to play on Monday night.
“By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year," FIFA announced.
U.S. Soccer is happy, too.
The U.S. Soccer Federation said that they are happy with the decision and "are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to play tomorrow. Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans."
White House reportedly made 'call' to FIFA
Ben Jacobs reports that the White House made a call to FIFA, urging them to review Balogun's red card.
"The White House made a direct call to FIFA to ask Gianni Infantino to review Folarin Balogun’s red card. FIFA approached for comment and referred to the findings of its independent committee. FIFA sources insist White House influence could not affect the decision due to the powers contained in Article 27 and the independent nature of the disciplinary panel," Jacobs reported.
Reports previously indicated that FIFA would not be able to look into Balogun's red card and potentially overturn it.
It's unclear what exactly has changed, though it sounds like President Trump and the White House at least made an effort to help U.S. Soccer.
