FIFA World Cup 2026 | World Cup Controversy: Trump Call, Balogun Ban Reversed, FIFA Faces Backlash

A major controversy has erupted at the FIFA World Cup after USA striker Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension was dramatically overturned ahead of the Round of 16 clash against Belgium. The decision came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly spoke to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to understand the basis of Balogun's red-card suspension. FIFA later said the ban was revoked following an independent appeal under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. Trump has since thanked FIFA publicly and claimed credit for the reversal.